A contractor from the Cumberland area has been appointed for the design and build of a new activity and leisure facility.

Thomas Armstrong will collaborate with the Millom Town Deal Board and Cumberland Council to deliver the scheme in Millom and Haverigg.

The new facility stands as part of the Activating Community Health projects, and it is one of four projects that make up the Millom Town Deal.

The deal has previously secured £20.6m from the UK Government's Town's Fund and an additional £8.7m in match funding.

The project promises a swimming pool, sports hall and fitness studios, becoming a community and leisure hub.

Its major aim is to enhance community health and well-being, providing residents an all-inclusive, modern and multi-purpose facility.

It will also attract visitors to the town, supporting not only the new leisure facility's financial sustainability but also the local businesses with an increased footfall and overall spending.

David Savage, the Chair of Millom Town Deal Board, said: "I understand how important this project is to the community and I am pleased to offer this long-awaited update.

"The appointment of Thomas Armstrong is a significant step forward on the journey to transform plans into a valued new facility for the town.

"We are also actively working hard to engage with potential operators for this new exciting development.

"With Thomas Armstrong now onboard to focus on the design and build, we can prepare for the next key milestone in securing planning permission.

"We will of course keep you updated as this project continues to build momentum."

Cumberland Council's leader, Cllr Mark Fryer, also said: "This is one of a number of exciting schemes we are taking forward across the Cumberland area which have the potential to make a significant difference to people’s lives.

"It is great to see progress being made and a contractor appointed."

On a related note, the council continues to work on other parts of the Town Deal projects.

The recent plans designed to enhance sustainable travel across Millom and Haverigg were shared with the community at a public engagement event on March 6.

Completion of the Connecting Millom and Haverigg project will ease commuting around the towns for pedestrians, cyclists and people with limited mobility.

Efforts are being made for the transformation of a former bank into a new arts and enterprise centre.

To stay updated on the progress of Millom Town Deal, please check www.millomtowndeal.org.uk.