Nearly 40 representatives from sports, leisure and activity clubs across Millom have helped to identify an array of opportunities for a new multi-million-pound leisure facility to enhance existing provision in the area.
The ideas were generated as part of discussions at a stakeholder workshop organised as part of Millom Town Deal’s Activating Community Health project at The Lighthouse Centre, in Haverigg, on Wednesday, 15 April.
The session also provided a chance for sports and activity club leaders to meet the team from Everyone Active, the appointed operator for the new site which is being delivered by Cumberland Council and is due to open this autumn.
David Savage, Chair of Millom Town Deal Board, hosted the event and emphasised the importance of community input.
He said: “It was fantastic to see so many clubs and organisations represented. The turnout was excellent and shows how committed people are to get the best out of this new facility for the benefit of those involved in a wide variety of sports and leisure activities across the area.
“What is absolutely clear is that we have a high standard of active sports provision in this area which has been carefully developed by dedicated and passionate leaders over many years. They are now keen to find ways for the forthcoming facility to boost and compliment what they do.
“The conversations and ideas shared at the workshop were inspiring and will help us ensure that the new leisure complex genuinely meets the needs of Millom’s and Haverigg residents, by delivering long-term benefits for the community.”
The new complex will feature a swimming pool, multi-purpose sports hall, fitness studio and a 3G all-weather pitch.
It is one of four major projects making up the ambitious Millom Town Deal, backed by £20.6 million in Government funding and £8.7 million in match funding.
Additional financial support has come from the Copeland Community Fund, Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, South Copeland GDF Community Partnership, CGP, Millom School, and Millom Town Council.
Suggestions and ideas gathered at the workshop will now form the basis for ongoing conversations with Everyone Active ahead of the facility’s opening later this year.