Talks are set to continue over the future need for a new women’s refuge in Carlisle.

The city’s dedicated refuge, in Warwick Square, controversially closed at the end of March. Campaigners expressed concern that those fleeing domestic violence would have nowhere to go.

Councillors insisted alternative accommodation and support was available in the city, but the lack of a dedicated refuge for women and children prompted calls for a rethink.

A group of interested individuals formed a working group to establish if there really were gaps in the service.

A meeting was held in mid-April, with Cumbria County Council, Carlisle City Council and Impact Housing all attending.

The next step was to look at all of the facilities for those affected by domestic violence across the county.

Former Police and Crime Commissioner Richard Rhodes, who has just retired, is among those involved.

He has chaired meetings with various local authorities to seek assurances, and visited alternative facilities in Carlisle.

He said he is satisfied that the city’s family hostel is safe for domestic violence victims.

However, he has called on the city council to provide figures detailing how often it is used in a bid to determine whether accommodation meets local demand.

But he now wants to look at facilities available countywide to see if there are any gaps, with a focus on Carlisle.

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The Mayor of Copeland Mike Starkie is also interested in reviewing the provision in his patch with the possibility of setting up a women’s refuge in the Whitehaven area.

Allerdale council has given assurances that it has sufficient facilities and support and is set to provide details to the working group.

Mr Rhodes said talks will now continue once all the information has been received, and they can plan how to take it forward.

“In the short term I conclude that there is acceptable provision for victims of domestic violence in some parts of the county. Others have already begun planning improvements,” he said.