Maryport Resident Highlights Town’s Growing Appeal Following Regeneration

A resident occupying a town centre apartment, which underwent renovation through a council-supported initiative, states that the locality, previously labeled as “down-and-out,” is currently “drawing people in.” Ren Wren resides as a tenant in one of the 16 apartments in Maryport, Cumbria, which have been reactivated by Cumberland Council’s Love Maryport Living Project. This project received a £12m funding allocation from the council, the government, and Historic England. She observed that following financial investment in the town, new enterprises have emerged, making it now “quite a desirable place to live.” Cumberland Council reported that prior to these efforts, 70% of the upper-level properties in the vicinity were unoccupied as residences. The council expressed its anticipation that the program would stimulate increased spending and social interaction within the town. A portion of these units now serve as permanent homes, while others are available for short-term holiday rentals. Property owners received grants reaching £60,000, with the stipulation that they contribute a minimum of 20% of the refurbishment expenses. Buildings situated on Senhouse Street and Crosby Street have gained from this undertaking. Michelle Mayman launched The Three Frogs, a ladieswear boutique located on Curzon Street, in August last year. This establishment is currently expanding into the adjacent premises at the intersection with Senhouse Street. She commented: “Even before the expansion, the reason we chose Maryport was because it’s an amazing town and you can see there’s so much potential there and so much money being spent.” She further described the modernization of the apartments as “fabulous” and noted the influx of new businesses into the town. “It’s a very exciting time,” she concluded. Ian Ackerley, who leads the project for the council, explained that the initiative, which is integrated into the government’s Town Deal project, encompasses a scope significantly broader than merely renovating the flats. He mentioned that the town is slated to receive a new activity centre, an event space, a skate park, and a cafe along its promenade. “It’s just to bring some life to the town, encourage tourism – a bit of positive news for the town.” Follow BBC Cumbria on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram. Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.