Plans for a new event space on Maryport’s historic harbourside have been approved.
Cumberland Council’s Maryport regeneration team had applied for a change of use to turn a patch of underused grassland next to the Aquarium and Shiver Me Timbers play area into a new community outdoor facility to host events such as markets and festivals.
The aim is to support Cumberland’s cultural programme and the proposals include a pop up stage area, bar, outdoor seating areas, marquee space, market stall spaces, an external bin storage area and new landscaping.
Yesterday (Wednesday 17 July 2024), Cumberland Council’s Planning Committee approved the plans which means the contractors, Flimby-based Thomas Armstrong Group, can now start work on site. That is expected to begin before the end of this month.
The application said: “The proposal aims to revitalise the communal spirit and cultural vibrancy of Maryport by providing a dynamic and versatile venue for a range of outdoor events. Situated close to the heart of Maryport, the proposal seeks to enhance the local community’s access to open air recreational activities, cultural events and social gatherings.”
The site has been designed with accessibility in mind, allowing families, wheelchair users and people of all ages to enjoy the events which will be held there.
The transformation of this land is part of the £12 million regeneration of Maryport which is being carried out by Cumberland Council. Funding has been provided by the Government and Maryport Marina and Harbour Authority has made the site available for development. Maryport Town Council will also be looking after the future management of the site.
Leader of Cumberland Council, Councillor Mark Fryer, said:
“Bringing this scheme to fruition has been a real team effort and I am grateful to the Harbour Authority and Town Council for their assistance. We have all seen how popular outdoor events in Maryport are. The Taste Cumbria Taste of the Sea festival is just one example of how we can give a massive boost to the local economy by bringing thousands of people to the town.
“Until now, there has never been a purpose-built location in Maryport to hold events like this and we have had to buy in the necessary infrastructure to stage live performances and producers’ markets. Now we will have a properly designed space to host yet more brilliant experiences for local people and visitors alike.
“Maryport is a town on the up and Cumberland Council’s regeneration team is working hard to bring £12 million of challenging and ambitious schemes to fruition. This is just the latest exciting development, and I cannot wait to see it completed.”
Councillor Linda Radcliffe, Mayor of Maryport, added:
“This kind of outdoor entertainment space would be a bonus to any community and it is especially welcomed in Maryport as we currently have no specific facilities for large events. The location could not be better as it sits adjacent to the harbour facilities, including the popular Marina. When the plans are developed it will be a flexible space with the assets required by many organisations and groups of all ages.”