Whitehaven councillors have welcomed the “Fantastic news” that the government’s Coastal Communities fund has approved £2.45 million for a Cumbria Coastal Activities Centre in Whitehaven Harbour.

Cllr Brian O’Kane, Mayor of Whitehaven said that the new centre will provide a real boost to the town and help put Whitehaven on the map. “We welcome the fantastic news that the government is supporting our town in this way. This will provide high-quality jobs and support our tourism industry, bringing more people into our shops and hotels,” he said.

Cllr Graham Roberts, County councillor for Bransty and last year’s town mayor added “The centre will create a dedicated facility for water sports and recreational activities at Whitehaven Harbour. The proposed low carbon Cumbria Coastal Activities Centre building will include an activity, arts and community centre with a multi-purpose event and educational space. I’d like to thank all those who have worked to set up this proposal and lobbying for it to be achieved, and our MP for lobbying the government to make sure they recognise the needs of the area.”

Trudy Harrison MP said “I am absolutely delighted that Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners has been successful to the tune of £2.4million for its water sports facility at Whitehaven harbour. This is a wonderful investment and will further enhance not only the town’s harbourside but our coastal area as a whole, creating jobs and attracting visitors.”

Today the Conservative government announced over £10 million for coastal communities around the UK, helping to create jobs, increase economic growth and improve people’s lives as we leave the EU on 31 October, and the proposals for a Cumbria Coastal Activities Centre in Whitehaven Harbour is one of the successful bids.