Businesses in west Cumbria are being given an opportunity to take part in a new development at Whitehaven Marina.

The Edge - Cumbria’s Coastal Activities Centre, is being built on land next to the Wellington Inn car park in Whitehaven Harbour and is set to boost the economy, create jobs and attract visitors.

This month Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners, which is overseeing the delivery of the project, is opening the tender process for welcoming a business to run the centre on a commercial basis.

John Baker, CEO of Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners, said: "This is a fantastic business opportunity for the right operator, as well as the chance to get involved in a project that will really make a difference for the local community of Whitehaven, Cumbria and beyond.

"The Edge is set to be a really special and beneficial asset for the area and we want to hear from commercial operators with the outlook and ambition to match.

The three-storey building, which has been designed to look like a giant version of the pebbles thrown onto the harbourside during high seas, will contain changing facilities, a cafe, meeting room, and a gallery/multi-use room for hosting a variety of activities and events.

The top two floors will contain high quality en-suite overnight accommodation.

The commercial operator will benefit from multiple revenue created from the cafe and catering in The Edge, as well as overnight accommodation.

It is said that the accommodation revenue will come from those participating in the Coast to Coast cycle ride from Whitehaven to Tyneside.

Mr Baker added: "It will bring visitors and investment into the area, but equally it will enhance the lives of local people and give them somewhere to be proud of, have fun, do business and carry out a range of activities to benefit their physical and mental wellbeing.

"Appointing a commercial operator for the building is a vital step in the process of making this vision a reality and I’d urge anyone who wants to find out more to get in touch."

It is anticipated 15 jobs will be created both directly and indirectly by The Edge. In addition, it is hoped visitor numbers to Whitehaven could increase by up to 10,000 per year with an associated spend in excess of £500,000.

The deadline for submissions of Expression of Interest is 31st January 2022 with the selection process commencing in February 2022.