As Westmorland and Furness Council continues to carve out a visionary future for Barrow-in-Furness, the Marina Village project emerges as a flagship model of transformative urban development. This ambitious undertaking aims to revitalise a 25-hectare site in the heart of the town, transitioning it from an industrial relic into a vibrant urban community replete with residential spaces, nature reserves, and public areas.
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In an insightful discussion with Laura Mitchell, a local planner intimately involved with the project, the community’s pivotal role in this development was brought into sharp focus. Laura’s enthusiasm was palpable as she expounded on the myriad facets of Marina Village, underscoring its significance beyond mere construction.
“Marina Village is not just another housing development,” Laura began, her excitement infectious. “It represents a comprehensive vision for sustainable urban living, right here in our town.”
The council’s vision for Marina Village is indeed expansive. The project encompasses 808 new homes, nature conservation areas, and new public open spaces, crafting a unique, sustainable urban neighbourhood interwoven with natural elements.
“One of the most compelling aspects of the Marina Village project is its emphasis on sustainability,” Laura remarked. “We’re not simply building houses; we’re fostering a community designed to flourish for generations.”
This dedication to sustainability permeates every element of the project’s design. From the integration of green spaces to the utilisation of eco-friendly building materials, Marina Village aims to set a new benchmark for urban development in the region.
A standout feature of the Marina Village initiative is its focus on community engagement. The council has stressed the importance of resident involvement in shaping the project’s future, urging locals to voice their views throughout the consultation process.
“We’re encouraging residents to get involved and share their perspectives,” Laura emphasised. “This is their town, and their input is crucial to ensuring the development aligns with the community’s needs and aspirations.”
To facilitate this engagement, the council has organised a series of consultation events, including a drop-in session at The Forum on 10 September. These events offer residents a platform to express their opinions and stay informed about the project’s progress.
In addition to engaging with residents, the council is collaborating with key stakeholders, including Natural England, the Environment Agency, Associated British Ports, and BAE Systems. This inclusive approach ensures the development aligns with broader regional objectives and addresses the concerns of various interest groups.
“We’re adopting a very inclusive approach to this project,” Laura explained. “By collaborating with stakeholders from diverse sectors, we can create a development that benefits everyone.”
This collaborative effort extends across various service areas within the council, including education and highways, ensuring that the necessary infrastructure to support the new community is established from the outset.
The Marina Village project is buoyed by a substantial £24.8 million of Brownfield, Infrastructure, and Land (BIL) funding from Homes England. This financial backing is pivotal in transforming the former industrial land into a thriving residential community.
“The first six-hectare phase of the site is ready for development,” Laura explained. “Preparations for the second phase of 19 hectares are underway, and this funding is instrumental in making that happen.”
Simultaneously, the council is preparing a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) to guide the project’s implementation. This SPD is informed by feedback from previous consultations with infrastructure and service providers, ensuring the development is well-planned and responsive to community needs.
As our conversation concluded, Laura reflected on the broader implications of the Marina Village project for Barrow and beyond.
“This is one of the council’s most significant schemes and holds tremendous importance for Barrow, Westmorland and Furness, and beyond,” she noted. “It’s about more than just building homes; it’s about creating a vibrant community that enhances residents’ quality of life and contributes to the town’s overall well-being.”
Laura’s passion for the project was evident, and it was clear that she believed deeply in the positive impact Marina Village would have on the town. As the council continues to solicit feedback from residents and stakeholders, the future of Marina Village looks promising, poised to become a cornerstone of Barrow’s development for years to come.
For the residents of Barrow-in-Furness, now is the time to engage and contribute to shaping the future of their town. The Marina Village project presents a unique opportunity to create a sustainable, thriving community in the heart of Barrow, and the council’s commitment to community engagement ensures that every voice can be heard.
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