Towns across the county are set to undergo much-needed renovations – thanks to one healthy chunk of funding.

Community projects in Cleator Moor, Millom and Workington have been given the means to give each town a new lease of life, investing in everything from sports and outdoor spaces to renovating disused buildings.

All areas have submitted a bid to the Towns Fund – a £3.6 billion pot which offers funding and opportunities for communities across the country to deliver long-term growth.

Successful bids would see a £25 million investment into the area, covering urban regeneration, planning and land use, skills and enterprise infrastructure and connectivity.

And while Allerdale Council and Copeland Council continue to wait for news on the multi-million pound bid, people of Cleator Moor, Millom and Workington can celebrate as each area has secured a huge boost, with the two Copeland towns receiving £500,000 each, and Workington receiving £750,000.

Mike Starkie, Mayor of Copeland, is thrilled with the news, which was announced yesterday, and said: “It’s extremely exciting times for both Millom and Cleator Moor, and both Town Boards are driving their full bids forward at pace.

“It is very welcome news that we have been successful with bids for this immediate funding for both towns, and the projects that have been identified will make a positive difference to the communities.”

First on Millom and Haverigg’s to-do list is upgrading Millom Park, ensuring facilities are more visible and accessible for all.

The town will also see a new cycling, running and walking track to encourage residents to get their hearts pumping with plenty of exercise, as well as a new digital trail celebrating poet Normal Nicholson, guiding visitors to walk routes dotted about the town.

The funding could also go towards buying dilapidated buildings and sites, allowing the council to redevelop the area and create a picture-perfect town.

And chairman of the Millom Board, Robert Morris-Eyton, is over the moon, and said: “The projects will provide a mix of immediate wins for Millom and Haverigg, and start the process of long-term investment in the town.”

Up in Cleator Moor, the helpful boost will see similar improvements, with upgraded sports facilities, new cycle and walking routes, and a revamp for Jacktrees Road park.

Kayleigh Daniels, chairman of the Cleator Moor Board, said: “This is extremely good news for Cleator Moor, and projects have been targeted that provide significant opportunities for our residents.”

And last but not least, those in Workington are also jumping for joy, with plenty of upgrades coming to the town.

A cycle way through the underpass between Central Way and Brow Top car park is set to be created, with increased lighting and town-inspired artwork decorating the walls.

Improvements to the Cloffocks area near Workington Leisure Centre will also be made, with plans to create an outdoor events and activity area being suggested, including a spot for a mobile green screen for all to view major events and high-quality outdoor gym equipment.

The funding will also go towards the proposed demolition and redevelopment of the former Opera House site.

Commenting on the towns’ funding, Trudy Harrison, Copeland MP, said: “It is testament to the commitment and hard work of key partners, Towns Board members and staff at Copeland Borough Council that this vital funding has been secured.

“Together, we will continue to work collectively to deliver these transformational projects for our communities.”

Workington MP Mark Jenkinson is also popping the champagne, and said: “Fantastic news today that Workington has been allocated it’s full £750,000 accelerated funding as part of the Town Deal.

“As well as some connectivity improvements, we’re hoping to buy the Workington Opera House site on Ladies Walk, which has been derelict since 2004, using this funding.”

He added: “Workington is back on the map again.”

Those living in Workington are being encouraged to have their say on what the money should be spent on, if the town’s bid for £25 million is successful.

Councillor Mike Johnson, Deputy Leader of Allerdale Borough Council, said: “I’d like to thank all those who submitted their ideas through the MyTown website and can say they have proved to be extremely useful in helping the board decide which schemes to explore further.

“We believe the projects we’re sharing with you now have the potential to really improve the town and create an impact that will be felt in Workington and west Cumbria for generations to come.”

John Coughlan, Chairman of the Workington Town Deal board, added: “Hearing what local people have to say about these plans is extremely important to us so I’d urge everyone with an interest in Workington, or west Cumbria more widely, to take part in this consultation if they can.”

To find out more, and to share your thoughts, visit www.allerdale.gov.uk/en/workington/workington-town-deal-public-consultation.