Plans for a proposed sports village in Workington have taken a step forward with the submission of the latest planning document.
Cumberland Council, Workington AFC and Workington Town RLFC have joined forces to create what is described as 'a new and exciting sports facility that will be the pride of Cumbria'.
The document, which is known as a screening opinion, follows last month's announcement that the plans were to be put on display and residents were invited to give their views on the proposed development at Borough Park.
Speaking at the time Dave Bowden, spokesman for Cumberland Sports Village, said: "We thank everyone involved in reaching this stage and look forward to making this vision a reality."
The Cumberland Sports Village project is supported by º£½ÇÊÓƵ taxpayer funding allocated via the Government's Town Deal, Cumberland Council, and the Football Foundation.
The project aims to deliver a 'modern, fit-for-purpose' stadium facility for both Workington AFC and Workington Town RLFC, while also serving as a hub for the wider community and businesses.
The proposed stadium includes a new main stand, spectator facilities, a function suite, executive boxes, a sports bar, and an external fan zone.
Plans for the main stand include seating for 1000 people, including wheelchair-accessible spaces, and a first-floor function suite with capacity for around 120 guests.
The stand is also expected to house executive boxes with terrace seating, administrative offices, a media suite, and a match day control room.
Four changing rooms are set to be provided for clubs, officials, and community groups, along with medical and laundry facilities.
Plans will see the north stand terrace rebuilt to accommodate 700 standing spectators, and the east and south stands will each offer covered standing areas for 1000 fans.
The existing turf pitch is expected to be replaced with a 3G surface suitable for both football and rugby.
Other planned improvements include new turnstiles, pitch perimeter fencing, and upgraded floodlighting.
According to the council, the stadium has a total capacity of 3700, including 2700 standing and 1000 seated spaces.
External access and parking are expected to be adjusted to suit the new layout, while the existing road network will be largely retained.
The project is being delivered by Cumberland Sports Village, with management support from a team of specialists including FWP, Curtins, PSA, Baker Mallet, Wardell Armstrong and Savills.
If approved, construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with the goal of completing the project by late summer 2027.
Cumberland Sports Village will oversee the ongoing operation of the facility, while day-to-day development management is being handled by Cumberland Sports Village Management.
The community pitch element will be delivered by the Football Foundation.
Members of the public are encouraged to provide feedback on the plans by visiting www.cumberlandsportsvillage.org.uk.
