A MAJOR project providing ‘an array of improvements’ within Workington has taken a ‘positive step’ forward as plans are submitted.

Two planning applications have been submitted as part of the Workington Gateway initiative, a key regeneration project for the town.

One application involves the upgrade of pedestrian and cycle routes through Hall Park, which surrounds historic Workington Hall. If it is approved, their surfaces will be changed from rough gravel to a hard surface, allowing greater accessibility for Park users.

In addition, the main entrances to the parkland will be improved – one near the skate park on Stainburn Road, and the other at Ladies Walk, off Bridge Street.

The second application involves the widening of Hall Brow to 'enhance connectivity' between the A66 and employment sites in the north of the town. This is the road which runs between Workington’s police headquarters and Hall Park.

It is narrow and congested, causing issues for residents, and can be a tight squeeze for buses and HGVs.

This planning application proposes widening the road, which means a long stretch of wall needs to be moved. If permission is granted, this will be moved further into Hall Park and completely rebuilt in its traditional style.

In addition, crucial parking for residents will be formalised and a new pedestrian crossing created, giving improved access between the park and the local network of pathways.

Hall Park is Grade-II listed so a planning application is required to make the changes.

Cumberland council leader Mark Fryer said: “I am delighted to see these planning applications be submitted allowing us to take the next step with this exciting project.

“This is about improving the links in and out of the west of the county and talking with industry over the years it’s a positive step forward.

“This project is another important step to improve the highway infrastructure within Cumberland.”

The Workington Gateway project is a £10million scheme investing in local regeneration and infrastructure. It will also deal with the pinch point where the A66 and A596 meet at Ramsay Brow, next to the Magistrates Court.

The junction is being reconfigured to enable larger vehicles to navigate the route. In addition, the project will improve local cycling and walking connections, address safety issues and provide feature lighting of Workington Hall.

West House social enterprise will also create a centre and café in the park’s walled garden to provide horticultural training and employability skills for adults with learning disabilities.