Mark Jenkinson MP is delighted that MHCLG has announced the funding for a vertical farm, and the improvements to Bothel junction on the A595.
Government has committed £5.5 million to the vertical farm and £5 million to the improvements on Bothel junction.
A595 Bothel Improvements
This project would see a significant upgrade to a section of the A595 between Carlisle and Cockermouth near Bothel. Improvements include the delivery of new climbing lanes, junction improvements and route realignment. This will improve journey times and reliability and would be an important step in improving strategic connectivity between Carlisle and west Cumbria. This scheme has also been identified as being of pan-northern significance and was included in Transport for the North's programme of improvements promoted to Department for Transport. The accelerated funding would see progression of the scheme development for the entire improvement, early delivery of one of the junction improvements at the A595 Greyhound Inn/Torpenhow junction, along with land acquisition, statutory diversions and detailed design to prepare for the delivery of the remainder of the improvement once all funding is secured.
Cumbria Vertical Farm of Excellence
The development of a worldwide centre of excellence and a significant integrated vertical farming solution initially located in Cumbria at the strategic site of Lillyhall. It will provide employment during construction and, through its ongoing operation, provide secure sustainable food supply reducing reliance upon imports. A carbon neutral facility, it will be a net generator of power through technologies such as wind, solar and green energy from waste. The site will provide international research and teaching facilities as well as providing education programmes for schools on nutrition & health linking into public health campaigns along with visitor facilities for the public.
Mark said: "After months of lobbying the Department for this funding, I am delighted that this investment will be made in my constituency.
The infrastructure improvements at Bothel is important for residents and those who commute along the A595 to work. The investment in the vertical farm will, I hope encourage private sector investment in Workington and provide a good number of jobs.
I look forward to seeing both projects as they develop now the funding has been confirmed."
