18-06-2025
New 10m sports village in West Cumbria could open within the next two years
A new 10m sports village in West Cumbria could open within the next two years.
The development includes a stadium for Workington Reds and Workington Town League club which will be built on the existing Borough Park site.
Those behind the scheme say the stadium will hold 3,700 sitting and standing spectators. Floodlights and parking facilities will also be adjusted to fit the facility.
Both Workington AFC and Workington RLFC will have the opportunity to hold engagement events over the summer.
With a planning application set to be submitted by the end of July 2025, its expected construction work will begin in early 2026, finishing within 18 months.
The existing pitch will also be replaced with a 3G pitch suitable for both football and rugby.
Dave Bowden, spokesman for Cumberland Sports Village, said: "We're pleased to be part of such positive progress on the Cumberland Sports Village project.
"It's a project built on partnership and shared vision and we're excited by the potential it holds to create lasting benefits for Workington AFC, Workington Town RLFC, and the whole community.
"We thank everyone involved in reaching this stage and look forward to continue working hard to make this vision a reality."
Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, added: 'We remain fully committed to supporting Cumberland Sports Village Ltd in delivering the Sports Village project.
"I have been fighting for West Cumbria to have a top-class stadium for many years and it is fantastic that we now have some revised detailed designs for a venue which will cement our status as major players on the sporting map.'
A spokesperson from Workington Town RLFC added: "This development marks a significant step forward for both the club and the wider area, offering modern infrastructure to support rugby league, local sport, and community events.
'We believe that the project will inspire future generations to want to watch and play sport in this facility.
"We feel that the project is of the right scale, with a sensible and realistic approach, and will provide lasting benefits for Workington and West Cumbria. We're excited to play our part in this ambitious and transformative project.'
A spokesperson from Workington AFC said: 'The proposed development will provide a modern, high-quality facility to support first-team performance, youth development, and the ongoing delivery of our club's community programmes across West Cumbria.
"It also presents valuable commercial opportunities to help secure long-term sustainability. The Board of Workington AFC looks forward to help make these plans a reality for our club and community.'