A public drop-in event will be held in Whitehaven tomorrow (Tuesday 24 March) to give residents and businesses the opportunity to have their say on the town’s future.
Cumberland Council has organised another public drop-in event on Tuesday 24 March 2026 between 2pm and 7pm at the Civic Hall, Whitehaven. The event is open to all.
Following on from the event last year Cumberland Council is now in a position to share a new vision for the town and the set of principles that will underpin the new plan and the future development of the town, these include:
Celebrating heritage and waterfront identity.
Rebalance movement to put people first.
Activate the harbour and town centre.
Define Whitehaven’s identity as a coastal destination.
Support Employment, Learning and Sustainable Living.
Enhance Public Realm and Green Infrastructure.
Deputy Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Emma Williamson, has been leading on the development of the Masterplan, said:
“We have a bold vision for Whitehaven, but we also want the input of local residents and businesses.
“Whether you are a local resident, worker, business owner, or visitor, we want to hear what you have to say about the future of the town.
“It’s not just about buildings or infrastructure, but about community, belonging, and a sense of pride in Whitehaven.
"Please do join us and have your say.”
Since Cumberland Council was established in 2023 more than £2.45 million funding has been invested in Whitehaven through Cumberland Council, UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Copeland Community Fund and Sellafield Social Impact funding.
There has also been investment of time and resources on deep cleaning, parks and maintenance, and environmental enforcement.
The Whitehaven Masterplan will set a bold, strategic direction for the town’s future.
The aim is to create a thriving, sustainable Whitehaven that celebrates its history while embracing a dynamic future.
Whitehaven Masterplan will:
Set out the case for investment in Whitehaven to support economic growth and the ambitions of the town and region.
Identify how we connect the harbour and town centre and improve transport management and access.
Support the redevelopment of our heritage assets, with a particular focus on King Street.
Establish a set of investment opportunities to support local priorities.
Set out a ‘quick win’ programme of deliverable activities that will support the activation and attractiveness, vitality and use of the town centre, including the role of partners and partnership in achieving this.