GROUND has been broken on a scheme to bring businesses, jobs and investment into a key employment site in Workington. 

The £2.3m scheme, funded through the government’s Growth Deal and by Allerdale Borough Council, will see the addition of new enabling infrastructure into land at Lillyhall to unlock 10.56 hectares of land for development.

The intention is that this will then attract further investment, and make it easier for businesses to move to the site. 

The work involves improving access to the site with a new roundabout as well as a service road and utilities including superfast broadband connections. 

The site is owned by Allerdale Borough Council. Funding for the project comes from the Cumbria LEP who are providing £1.7m with the rest coming from the council. 

It's estimated that the eventual development of the site will lead to over 180 new jobs being created, with new business space for offices, R&D as well as space for the industrial and warehousing sectors.

Cllr Mike Johnson, Leader of the Council, said: “We have a key commitment in our Council Strategy to invest to grow. This is an example of that policy in action.

"Therefore, I’m really pleased to see this work start on what is a key employment site in Allerdale. We have worked hard to secure the funding required for this scheme which I’ve no doubt will encourage more businesses to invest in the area bringing with it the economic benefits and jobs.” 

John Coughlan, Chief Executive Officer of TSP Engineering and Cumbria LEP Board member said “Cumbria LEP was delighted to invest £1.7 million into the further development of the Lillyhall North site.

"This funding will open up over 10 hectares of land, which will provide the necessary sites and premises for our businesses. All areas in Cumbria, including Allerdale, need to attract new investment and businesses to help grow our economy and create employment for future generations. This site will play an important part in achieving growth, locally”.  

The work is due to complete in October 2022. Any businesses interested in the site should contact Brendan Carlin, Allerdale Borough Council’s Assistant Chief Executive (Innovation and Commercial).