The Cleator Moor Town Deal has made another step forward with the submission of a planning application for a modern leisure facility.

The application is part of the 'Healthy Town' project, one of four projects under the town deal, aiming to provide the community with inclusive sports facilities at the Activity Centre.

The proposed improvements stated in the application will include a four court sports hall, multipurpose studio space, a new fitness suite, and changing facilities.

The centre would also incorporate a new base for the Copeland Occupational and Social Centre (COSC), which provides dedicated outreach support to disabled individuals and groups.

Bob Metcalfe, chair of the Cleator Moor Town Deal Board, said: "The submission of the planning application is another important milestone for the Activity Centre.

"The plans will transform the existing facility to accommodate a wider sports and more flexible activity spaces for the local community.

“The ambitious schemes for Cleator Moor are moving forward and will provide sustainable developments for the benefit of the whole town.”

The Healthy Town initiative aims to enhance leisure provision in the town, boosting health, wellbeing, and encouraging increased visitor numbers, which will increase local business footfall and revenue.

The activity centre aims to deliver a broad programme of sports, physical activities, and provide a home for wider health and wellbeing services.

Councillor Mark Fryer, the leader of Cumberland Council, said: “This is another important step forward for this ambitious scheme.

"It is one of a number of exciting schemes underway across Cumberland.

“Improving access to sports and leisure facilities has the potential to improve wider health and wellbeing outcomes in our communities, something that is a priority for the council.”

Following a competitive tender process under the Cumbria Major Works Framework, Thomas Armstrong was appointed as a Design and Build delivery partner.

Subject to planning approval, construction will commence in the autumn/winter of 2024 and be completed by autumn/winter of 2025.

The Cleator Moor Town Deal bagged a £22.5m award from the UK Government's Towns Fund, and additional £18.4m from match funders.

Further information is available at cleatormoortowndeal.org.uk.