A £20 MILLION extreme sports facility in Cleator Moor could pave the way for area's regeneration and its long-suffering high street, say town councillors.

Those behind the plans for West Lakes Xtreme, which could open as soon as July 2018 on land near Red Beck Park, say it could bring in outdoor clothing and equipment stores to the town - with economic benefits reaching Frizington, Cleator and Arlecdon.

Bob Metcalfe, of Regen North East Copeland (RNEC), who was speaking at a town council meeting said: "This is a unique facility not just in the UK but internationally. So, the regeneration opportunities for the town are huge and we want to see the benefits feed into the local economy." 

He said the centre would feature activities such as bouldering, climbing, ice-climbing and canyoning. The site would also house a hotel, cafe and retail developments.

Councillors warmly received the plans for the facility, but coun Richard Wood said that he would like to see something in the town that keeps visitors spending money in the area. 

"I know myself, from going climbing trips to Windermere, that you can drive for hours and then leave to go back home once you've finished your activity - apart from a quick trip to the pub perhaps" said coun Wood. "It would nice to see the outdoor-type shops you get in places like Keswick opening to entice people to stay in the area a little longer."

Funders are now being sought for the project and construction could begin in March 2017.

Several councillors expressed disappointment at finding out about the latest plans through The Whitehaven News rather than being informed beforehand. 

Town Council chairwoman and Copeland councillor, Joan Hully, said: "I was a bit upset because the information was there, but I couldn't tell the councillors because of confidentiality. 

"I think that as a town council we should have been invited to meetings or been informed so that we can keep constituents up-to-date too."