Beach boardwalk officially opens to public

The colour of the boardwalk was picked by the public

A boardwalk which connects a town's promenade and harbourside has officially opened.

Dozens attended a special event at the accessible pathway in Maryport on Monday.

The non-slip path has been made of glass-reinforced plastic and has a honeycomb structure so water will not pool on it.

Work on the boardwalk started in September, with people choosing a "sand" colour for it after a vote.

Connecting waterfront

Cumberland Council leader Mark Fryer said the boardwalk would help "bring together" other schemes in the town, including developments on the harbourside and at the Carlton and the Wave centre, which will be renamed Maryport Activity Centre.

“This is the first time there has been an accessible route on this section of seafront which does not involve going along a road," Mr Fryer said.

"Wheelchairs, mobility scooters and prams and pushchairs will all be able to use the boardwalk, and enjoy this popular little stretch of beach."

Councillor Carni McCarron-Holmes said the project was "fantastic"

Councillor Carni McCarron-Holmes, who cut the ribbon on Monday, said the project was "for everyone".

“It will open up this beach which we, as locals, love," she added.

"As well as connecting the entire waterfront, the boardwalk will be a place to play, or sit, or be social. I think it is fantastic.”