Plans to revive Whitehaven town centre are gathering pace as the latest progress update on the development of the town’s Masterplan was presented to the Whitehaven Town Centre Board last week.
The Board, chaired by Josh MacAlister MP and Cllr Emma Williamson, reviewed the latest version of the emerging Masterplan, which outlines a long-term vision to revitalise Whitehaven as a living, prosperous and vibrant town centre – a place where people choose to live, work, visit and invest.
The Whitehaven Masterplan aims to co-ordinate public and private investment, celebrate the town’s heritage and natural assets, and strengthen its role as a key centre within West Cumbria’s economy.
The presentation detailed the findings from the first phase of consultation and engagement, which involved residents, businesses, landowners and community groups across the town. Feedback revealed strong local ambition for a more connected, attractive and welcoming Whitehaven, with a thriving mix of shops, leisure spaces, and community facilities.
A second round of public consultation is planned for December, including targeted engagement with local businesses and young people, whose voices are key to shaping the final plan.
Work is now underway to come up with some specific deliverable projects and a Strategic Outline Business Case to guide future investment and delivery. Ideas received from the public so far include better celebrating the town’s maritime heritage, a new food market, more independent shops, new housing to rent and a wider cultural offer for the town’s residents and visitors.
Josh MacAlister MP said:
“We’re making real progress in setting out an ambitious yet achievable vision for Whitehaven’s future. The Masterplan will help us unlock investment and ensure Whitehaven is a place people are proud to call home and excited to visit.
“I’m grateful to all the residents, businesses, and partners who have shared their ideas so far – your input is shaping a future where Whitehaven can thrive as a vibrant, well-connected town at the heart of West Cumbria. A town proud of its heritage yet looking to the future.”
Cllr Emma Williamson, Deputy Leader of Cumberland Council, added:
“This Masterplan is about building confidence and pride in Whitehaven’s future. It brings together our shared priorities – more good-quality homes, better spaces for people to meet, and stronger links to our coastline and heritage.
“The feedback we’ve received so far shows a real sense of local ownership, and I’d encourage everyone to stay involved as we move into the next stage of consultation later this year.”
Residents can still share their views in Josh’s survey at joshmacalister.uk/whitehaven
Josh MacAlister MP 