Workington public realm and Gateway redevelopment

Workington is undergoing a major transformation through two interconnected projects designed to enhance access, movement and public spaces across the town.

Project overview

Cumberland Council has secured over £33 million in funding to deliver a major regeneration programme in Workington. It aims to boost the local economy, revitalise the town centre and create a more connected, inclusive space for residents, visitors and businesses.

Workington Town Centre Public Realm and Connectivity Project

A total of £23 million has been awarded through the Workington Town Deal to fund the Town Investment Plan. It aims to transform Workington into a vibrant, well-connected destination for businesses, the community and visitors by:

creating a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly town centre
reducing the impact of traffic in central areas
enhancing connectivity across the town
developing safe, attractive public spaces
encouraging an increase in footfall and private sector investments

Workington Gateway Project

Supported by central government funding, an additional £10 million will be invested to improve access to key employment sites and the Port of Workington. It will also enhance walking and cycling links between the town centre and local cultural and heritage attractions. This will help to:

strengthen the local economy and transport network
improve road infrastructure at Ramsay Brow and Hall Brow to reduce congestion
enhance pedestrian and cycle access to Hall Park and Workington Hall
unlock growth opportunities at key employment sites and the Port of Workington

Background

In 2022, the former Allerdale Borough Council applied to the Government for Levelling Up funding. A total of £9.6 million was granted, along with £1 million from Cumberland Council which is now driving the project forward.

Project timeline

Construction to start August 2025

Project to be completed by Spring 2026

Who is carrying out the work

The contractor for the Workington Town Centre Public Realm and Connectivity Project is Thomas Armstrong Ltd.

The contractor for the Workington Gateway Project at Ramsey Brow is Story Ltd.

The construction phase might offer temporary and permanent employment opportunities. Check local listings of local job offering on the contractor’s websites.

Impact on local business

There will be some changes to traffic and pedestrian flow, especially near Ramsay Brow, and on A66. Signage will be provided to assist navigation around the construction site.

Delivery routes will be adjusted and clearly marked to make sure businesses can have continued access during construction.

All businesses in the area will remain open as usual throughout the construction period. We encourage everyone to continue supporting local shops and services during this time.

Impact on residents

Construction methods to minimise dust and noise will be implemented, and work will adhere to town regulations regarding permissible noise levels.

If you have any concerns, you can email us.

Email: WorkingtonTownscape@cumberland.gov.uk

Accessibility during construction

Temporary changes will be made to pedestrian routes and traffic patterns, with full signage provided to help you navigate the area safely. A walkway for pedestrians will be maintained at all times, though its location may change periodically.

Pedestrian footways will be clearly marked and maintained throughout the construction period.

All temporary pathways and access routes will be designed to be accessible for individuals with disabilities.

A clear access plan for emergency services has been developed and will be strictly followed during the construction period.

Bikes and cycle access

We actively encourage the use of bikes and various modes of transportation as part of our commitment to a sustainable and accessible within Workington.

The scheme

The Workington Gateway Project will offer many benefits for the whole community, as well as the West Cumbrian economy.

Hall Brow, close to Workington Police Station, will be widened, allowing better access for all vehicles
Parking will be improved for local residents on Hall Brow
A disused pub at the bottom of Ramsay Brow has been demolished so its junction with Washington Street and Bridge Street can also be widened, improving HGV access
Both these sections of the scheme will benefit the Port of Workington, and the wider industrial areas in the north of the town as restrictions on long vehicles will be removed
Heavy traffic will also be reduced through other residential areas as this becomes the best route to this area of Workington
A new cycleway will be created and pedestrian pathways will be improved from Ladies Walk, next to the former Workington Brewery building, through Hall Park
The cycle and pedestrian routes from Park End Road to Stainburn Roundabout and Workington Academy will also be enhanced
Permanent lighting will be installed at the historic Workington Hall
The walled garden in Hall Park, part of the West House horticultural social enterprise, will be enhanced with the creation of a new café and training facilities

The entire scheme should be completed in 2025.

Ramsay Brow mini park

An artist impression of the widened Ramsay Brow junction looking up from Washington Street. The new landscaped mini park green space is shown to the left of the Ramsay Brow roadway, adjacent to the red brick Workington Magistrates’ Court.

Artist impression of the widened Ramsay Brow junction looking up from Washington Street. The new landscaped pocket park green space is shownto the left of the Ramsay Brow roadway, adjacent to the red brick Workington Magistrates’ Court.

Timeline of works

Project timeline:

July 2024: Consultation
September 2024: Technical design
Autumn 2025: Construction
Spring 2026: Completion

Park End Road entrance

An artist impression of the entrance to Hall Park and the car park adjacent to Workington Skate Park. The pillars at the entrance to the park are visible through mature trees and there is a cobbled area on the road denoting the enhanced vehicle entrance.

Artist impression of the entrance to Hall Park and the car park adjacent to Workington Skate Park. The pillars at the entrance to the park are visible through mature trees and there is a cobbled area on the road denoting the enhanced vehicle entrance.

Public realm area

An artist impression of the public realm area. The addition of flowers and new paving creates a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly town centre.

An artist impression of Murray Road.

Timeline of works

Project timeline:

July 2024: Consultation
December 2024: Technical design
Autumn 2025: Construction
Spring 2026: Completion

West House view

An artist impression of an aerial view of how the new West House walled garden and café will look. It will feature buildings on three sides of the site, with paved areas between garden beds filled with plants in the centre.