PLANS to 'transform' Whitehaven were discussed in a Government-led workshop on October 8.

The Government’s High Streets Task Force delivered a workshop for senior council, business and community leaders at Whitehaven Civic Hall.

Expert Sonia Cubrilo, who has more than three decades of experience in town centre regeneration, spearheaded discussions.

She heard from key town centre stakeholders about their aspirations as part of the continued support Whitehaven receives having being selected by the Government to work with the High Streets Task Force (HSTF) in 2022.

Ms Cubrilo explored local problems, provided insights into potential solutions and met with figures including the leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer.

The visitors' objectives were to understand the challenges, explore Whitehaven's strengths, build capacity for change through effective partnerships, and identify stakeholders' roles in enhancing the town centre.

Following this interactive session, additional support and a progressive route-map will be developed by the HSTF.

Speaking about the visit, Ms Cubrilo said: “It was great for the High Street Task Force to deliver this workshop and have strong representation from Cumberland Council, Whitehaven Town Council, businesses and communities who all gave up their valuable time on Monday to rethink regeneration for Whitehaven.”

“Developing collaborative partnerships can make a real difference to the town centre. The key message that I always leave participants with is a quote from Bernard Shaw - 'Don’t wait for the right opportunity: create it'.

"Lots of places have started to do just that up and down the country, and those opportunities await Whitehaven too.” 

Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer added: “The workshop was a great opportunity for local stakeholders, businesses and other local groups to meet and share ideas.

"They have a wealth of experience which they were given the opportunity to share. 

“This is the beginning of a new collaborative process of working together, building wider ownership, to attract more resources into the area and help the town centre reach its full potential, ensuring that the offer of the town remains vibrant.”