By Gillian Ellison

Published at 11:09, Thursday, 10 May 2012

WHITEHAVEN’S £10million harbourside complex has been delayed.

But Frank Lowe, chairman of the developers, Magnus Homes, says he remains “cautiously confident” that the scheme will go ahead as planned.

The major development of the Mark House/Park nightclub site into flats, office space and retail units could create around 200 jobs.

Speaking to The Whitehaven News this week, Mr Lowe said the development has always been subject to a grant application to Britain’s Energy Coast for ‘gap funding’.

This was due to have been considered in February but it is now not known when it will go before the board – it is unlikely to be considered in June.

“The project has been pushed back but I am still cautiously confident,” said Mr Lowe.

The gap funding – used to help kick-start projects – would be used towards the building of the office accommodation.

It was originally thought the development would open late 2013/summer 2014. It is not clear how long the project could now be delayed.

A spokesman for Britain’s Energy Coast said that a number of projects, including the harbourside development, have had a longer assessment period than usual due to the publication of the West Cumbria Economic Blueprint on June 15.

“We are keen to pursue the project because it does fit with the strategic aims and objectives of the emerging West Cumbria Economic Blueprint. We are currently in the process of independently appraising the project to ensure our investment represents value for money and we will work with Magnus Homes before the application is presented to our board for consideration.” They were unable to say when exactly the application would be considered.

Published by http://www.whitehavennews.co.uk