Wasteland at Askam In Furness transformed

An area of transformed wasteland at Askam-in-Furness is being officially opened on Friday 11th July, at 2.30pm.

Councillors Joe Nicholson, Chairman of Cumbria County Council, and Alan Jones, Chairman of Askam and Ireleth Parish Council, will be opening the scheme in New Road and Alexander Place, which has seen the former wasteland turned into attractive landscaped open space.

As part of the overall project, designed by Capita, the New Road area has grassed and wildflower mounds, ornamental and native shrub and tree planting, new ornamental railings at its boundary with Stafford Street and an attractive semi-circle area with matching footpath. There is also a sandstone feature, which is a relic of the old ironworks that existed near the site in The Lots area, showing respect to the heritage of the area. Alexander Place has a new footpath along its boundary and more trees and shrubs.

Councillor Joe Nicholson said: 

"This project has transformed these two areas into pleasant places for people who live in, and visit, Askam-in-Furness. Schemes like this help improve the quality of life for people living in the county and also sustain the environment. The land reclamation project sees millions of pounds being spent in Cumbria, transforming the environment for all. I am pleased to assist in the opening of this fine example."

Councillor Alan Jones said: 

"This is another example of a parish project that recognises the aspirations of the local community. As chairman of the parish council, it continues to give me great pleasure to be part of a team that works with other agencies, such as the county council, to improve the local environment. We cannot, however, rest on our laurels as there is much work still to be done."

The £121,034 project has been carried out through the Land Reclamation programme, managed by Cumbria County Council and funding by the North West Development Agency. Cumbria County Council and Askam and Ireleth Parish Council also provided funding.