AN iconic Workington pub will be demolished to make way for a new transport gateway in the town, after a decision by councillors.

At a meeting held in Carlisle's Civic Centre yesterday, October 8 councillors on the Cumberland Council planning committee decided to approve plans for the demolition of the former Henry Curwen public house and reinstatement works at Ramsay Brow to enable the widening of the A66/A595 junction.

The demolition of the Henry Curwen public house at Ramsay Brow will enable the widening of the A66/A596 Ramsay Brow junction in order to address the existing transport issues at Ramsay Brow.

Cumberland council lodged plans for the demolition in August, the step marked a major movement in the Workington Gateway project, however objections have been raised previously to the demolition plans for the historic building.

In the application, the council acknowledged the building had historical significance, however they said this had been greatly diminished due to works on the Henry Curwen in the 1940s.

The application was passed despite the strong objection of Workington Town Council who said the demolition of the former pub would have no benefit to the community or town.

A response from Workington Town Council in an officers report said: "The committee noted that the application received was for the demolition of the Henry Curwen pub only and did not give details of the widening of the road at Ramsay Brow.

"The committee fully objects to this application. The committee does not feel that the demolition of this building will have any benefit to the town or the community.

"The building is of historical, cultural importance and value to the town and its people and the committee will be deeply saddened to see the building demolished, should the application progress."

However, the council say that the demolition is needed to take on the Workington Gateway Project which they claim is 'exciting' for the town.

The improvement of the junction will 'reduce the impact of wagons, shorten journey times, and improve freight access to key industrial sites' in the north Workington area.

The project will also deliver pedestrian and cycling improvements in Hall Park, encouraging people to enjoy the park on their cycles and providing an alternative route to school or town.