More than 100 residents stopped by a pop-up surgery in Egremont on Friday (16th October), hosted by local MP Josh MacAlister alongside Councillor Sam Pollen and Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner David Allen.
The event, held on Main Street, gave residents the opportunity to hear about major investments and developments in the town, ask questions and raise concerns directly with their elected representatives.
There was plenty of good news to share, with £10 million regeneration plans for Egremont moving forward and work about to get underway at the former Red Lion site and Florence Arts Centre.
Residents also heard about funding secured for a brand-new play park at Orgill, providing improved facilities for local children and families, and the welcome news that department store TJ Hughes is set to open in the former Factory Shop premises in November.
The investment and new developments are part of wider efforts to revitalise Egremont, improve local facilities and bring new life to the town centre.
Alongside the positive news, a number of residents raised concerns about anti-social behaviour in the town.
Josh MacAlister MP said:
“It was brilliant to see so many people stop for a chat in Egremont. There’s a lot of positive change happening in the town, from the £10 million regeneration programme to the new play park and TJ Hughes opening next month.
“These investments are helping to give Egremont a brighter future, but it’s just as important that we listen to residents about the things that need fixing. That’s what these pop-up surgeries are all about – getting out into our communities, hearing directly from people and working together to get things done.”
Councillor Sam Pollen said:
“Egremont is a fantastic community and it’s really encouraging to see so much investment coming into the town. The Red Lion site, Florence Arts Centre and new facilities at Orgill will all make a real difference.
“It was great to speak to so many residents, hear their ideas and discuss the issues that matter to them. We’ll keep working together to make Egremont an even better place to live.”
David Allen, Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, said:
“People have a right to feel safe in their own communities, and I take the concerns raised about anti-social behaviour very seriously.
“My message to residents is simple: please report every incident to the police. Even if something seems minor, reporting it helps build the evidence needed to identify problems and take action. We want to work with residents to make Egremont safer for everyone.”
Residents can report non-emergency incidents to Cumbria Constabulary by calling 101 or through the police website at http://www.cumbria.police.uk. In an emergency, always call 999.
The pop-up surgery was part of Josh’s ongoing programme of public events across West Cumbria, giving constituents opportunities to speak to him directly about local issues.