Whitehaven’s harbourside transformation with £60m secured for orange water solution
MP Josh MacAlister leads efforts to secure funding and resolve long-standing issue
Efforts to solve Whitehaven Harbour's orange water dilemma, linked to Bransty Tunnel, have made headway, thanks to MP Josh MacAlister.
After two years of persistent efforts involving over a dozen organisations, MacAlister has secured £60 million to address the issue and reopen Bransty Tunnel.
This progress marks a significant achievement, where previously, fragmented responsibilities and unclear ownership stalled action.
Such a solution was far from inevitable, but MacAlister’s determination ensured the funds and a clear plan to restore the harbour and tunnel.
The original proposal involved a diversionary pipe to redirect water, but new modelling required a reassessment.
With cooperation from local and national partners like Network Rail and Rail Minister Lord Hendy, financial backing has been achieved.
MacAlister shared on Facebook, “I said I would get Whitehaven’s orange water sorted and Bransty Tunnel reopened - and I have.”
The community's commitment has been instrumental in getting this promising solution underway.