Workington mixed-use scheme primed for permission
Port Derwent’s 25,000 sq ft development was first proposed in 2018 and could finally be approved by Allerdale Council next week.
The developer is seeking outline consent to build five units on a four-acre site south of Derwent Drive opposite Derwent Howe Retail Park.
Three of the units are earmarked for retail, one will be a restaurant and the other could be used as a drive-thru.
Allerdale Council has recommended the scheme be approved but Workington Town Council objected to the project, claiming it would have a “very negative impact on town centre vitality”.
A retail assessment commissioned by Port Derwent said there were no sequentially preferable sites in the area that would be suitable for the development.
Those considered in the sequential test include the former Debenhams at Washington Square Shopping Centre, the former Fusion nightclub on Ladies Walk and The Clofflocks, among others. None were considered suitable for Port Derwent’s proposals.
The company is being advised by Tetra Tech, which concluded that the proposed development “will not result in a significant adverse impact” on other stores in Workington.
Allerdale Council’s planning committee will meet next Tuesday to discuss the proposals.
