Cumberland Council in the UK has granted planning permission and approved a construction contract to Thomas Armstrong for the development of a leisure centre in Millom, England.

This new activity and leisure facility, known as Activating Community Health, is a key component of the Millom Town Deal, which secured £20.6m ($26.00m) from the UK government's Town's Fund, along with additional funding.

The Copeland Community Fund has contributed £1m to the project while the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority has provided a £3.1m grant. This investment aims to support sustainable change in Millom and its surrounding communities.

Additional funding has been sourced from South Copeland GDF Community Partnership, CGP, Millom School, and Millom Town Council.

Millom Town Deal board chair David Savage said: "We have now secured the approvals so that the construction of the long-awaited Leisure Complex can begin. This means plans can be turned into reality, and this new facility will complement the work we have already started with the refurbishment of the 3G Pitch."

The new leisure centre will feature a swimming pool, sports hall, and fitness studios, serving as a community and leisure hub.

The project aims to enhance community health and well-being by providing residents with a modern, multipurpose, and inclusive facility.

It is also expected to attract visitors, supporting the long-term financial sustainability of the centre and boosting local business activity.

Cumberland Council leader and councillor Mark Fryer highlighted the centre's offerings, stating: "The new centre will include a swimming pool, gym, sports halls, and fitness studios, offering a good mix of physical activities for all ages.

"It will also provide dedicated space for health services and to support residents access essential wellness support locally, fostering a healthier and more connected community."

The Millom Town Deal projects continue to progress, with ongoing work on other parts of the programme, stated the council.