Chapter 41
The future as seen in 2006
What of the future? Certain trends in the likely development of Cockermouth in the next few decades may be discerned.
The first is a great awareness of the town’s history – the quality of many of its buildings and the attractiveness of its position and general plan. The formation of the Civic Trust (as the Civic Society) in 1967 was an indication of this, as was the decision of the Urban District Council in May 1972 to seek the help of experts “in determining appropriate planning policies for the future, whether in the form of improvement, redevelopment or clearance” in the central area of the town. Messrs. 10hnston and Wright, chartered architects of Carlisle, produced a full report on the area which, with its photographs, plans, charts and imaginary drawings of development, repays study in detail. One of the outstanding changes which resulted from this report was the rejuvenation of the Waterloo Street area instead of its total demolition. The awareness of the town’s value is seen also in the formation of conservation and special conservation areas covering most of Cockermouth except the new estates. Secondly, the town’s future is viewed in a larger context. It is influenced by the National Park Plan, recently published, since the Park borders on the town, but is more fully involved in the structure plans for West Cumbria and for Cumbria. There is growing opinion that the town should not extend indefinitely- that housing should be limited to infilling, restoration and the development of a few sites within its present boundaries and that industrial development should be limited and ‘light’. These plans are outlined in the draft Cockermouth District Plan issued by Allerdale District Council in March 1978.
Thirdly, tourism is a growing feature of the life of Cockermouth to be provided for and welcomed but not allowed to get out of control. The completion of the A66 link to the M6 motorway has brought an appreciable increase in the number of visitors to the town. In 1978 the Information Centre had 10,000 enquirers, in 1994 there were 21,231.
The ever-present problem is to preserve as much as possible of a town with a history as interesting and exciting as that we have been considering while at the same time providing for the needs of those living in the present.
In 2006, the Cockermouth Partnership, a local group seeking to improve the economic, social and cultural well-being of the area, sees great potential in what has been called the “Market Place Area”. This is under “The Market Towns Initiative” and the regeneration process is managed by a Project Manager. The Partnership have prioritised the area’s improvement through a range of consultation events and focus groups over recent years from 2000 and aim to build on the existing character and strengths to increase the cultural, leisure and shopping appeal, attract more visitors and local people and add value to the local environment and economy. This will be achieved through a variety of as-yet unconfirmed projects, from business support to building developments, public art, improved public realm and signage.
Currently at the planning stage, over £1 million of investment has been earmarked for this project and over half of that total has been pledged by the North West Regional Development Agency for 2007-08. It will therefore have a significant impact. There have been many opportunities for local people to engage with the planning of future development.
The vision for the Market Place area is one of economic prosperity, a vibrant social and cultural scene and an enhanced aesthetic aspect. Developments will involve local businesses and residents, consider existing assets and respect the traditional and rural values of the population, but adapt them so as to enhance social, environmental and economic wellbeing. The regenerated area should play an integral role in Cockermouth’s development as a successful commercial and tourist centre.
