More than 1,500 people participated in voting for the design of a new play park set to be built on Maryport’s harbourside area.

The ageing Shiver Me Timbers park will now be transformed into a pirate-themed adventure space, which received 70 per cent of the public vote.

The selection process saw two potential themes of pirates or ocean wildlife presented to the public online and at key locales around town, with more than 130 local school children casting their votes too.

The new park is part of a major £12 million regeneration initiative for Maryport and its historic harbourside, supported by the Government’s Future High Streets Fund.

Kompan, specialists in play equipment, have won the tender to create the vibrant site.

The park will feature a splash park and an array of other facilities such as slides, swings, and a zip wire that cater to all age groups and are inclusive of accessibility needs.

Councillor Mark Fryer, leader of Cumberland Council, said: "Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote - particularly Cumberland’s youngest residents who are, after all, the most important people in this consultation.

“The enthusiasm for this project has been brilliant. Alongside the planned new event space, the refurbishment of the former Wave centre, and the new café and bike and skate park on the prom, this is going to make Maryport’s waterfront a real destination for all the family.”

The final site plan is currently being finalised, with construction set to both begin and complete in summer.