Works begin at Port of Workington to prepare for new development
Demolition and land preparation part of a £4.5 million regeneration project
Major renovation efforts are underway at the Port of Workington, aiming to transform the area into a prime development site.
The project involves demolishing redundant infrastructure, removing hazardous materials, and remediating land.
Initial works have started at Tank Farm B with plans to extend to Tank Farm A and parts of the Oldside site.
Approximately 8.49 hectares will be made available for development, offering crucial access to quayside, rail, and road connections.
This paves the way for a potential dedicated terminal and significant open storage within the port's precinct.
Local firm Thomas Armstrong Construction is carrying out the work, which is funded by £4.5 million from the Government's Workington Town Deal.
This initiative is part of a broader regeneration effort that includes the Workington Gateway and enhanced transport links for the town.
The long-term plans for Oldside aim to establish the Port of Workington as a hub for clean energy, manufacturing, and logistics, aiding regional growth.
The port is poised to cater to projects in the Irish Sea, and developing these brownfield sites will enhance its offering further.
Cumberland Council, the port's owners/operators, published a prospectus titled "Building the future: A catalyst for growth on the Energy Coast" last year, outlining a vision for site transformation to attract more investment.
Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council, expressed optimism: "Oldside and the Port of Workington have significant potential for economic growth and are vital assets for west Cumbria and wider Cumberland.
"I am delighted by the onset of these developments, which promise to spur inward investment, creating jobs for residents and fresh opportunities for businesses."