Refurbished Walney shelter reopened after long campaign effort
Importance of preserving island’s heritage highlighted
In a significant restoration effort, the Walney shelter on the Promenade has reopened to the public following a prolonged campaign to save it.
Located at the corner of Central Drive and the Promenade on Walney Island, the nearly century-old structure suffered damage just after Christmas 2020, when one of its pillars crumbled.
Led by Walney Island councillor Frank Cassidy, efforts to preserve the shelter steered discussions away from demolition.
After months of repair work, the shelter's official reopening ceremony took place on 18th September. Barrow and Furness MP Michelle Scrogham cut the red ribbon, accompanied by local school children, educators, and community members.
Details of the revamped shelter include a restored lamp in the roof, plans for seating, and a space for visitor information.
Top Notch Contractors, responsible for the refurbishment, honoured the original craftsmanship while preparing the structure for the next century.
Originally built as a bus shelter in 1934, the site has served as a meeting place and a local notice board across decades. Community members are keen to preserve its legacy for years to come.