ARichardson

Published at 01:00, Friday, 22 September 2006

By Anna Richardson

CUSTOMERS are being asked their opinion on a proposed multi-million pound make-over at Workington’s Dunmail Park.

A planning application, due to be put before Allerdale Council, could give the shopping and leisure complex a sleeker, more up-market look.

It is thought that the proposals would provide more browsing space for customers and brighter, naturally-lit reception areas.

An exhibition, which includes an architect’s model of the revamped external facade, was being set up at the complex this week.

A questionnaire has also been provided for customers to either pledge their support or suggest changes to the plans.

Bill Dixon, director of complex owners J Dixon and Son, said: “We clearly want the public’s support, but we also want to know what they think.

“We value their suggestions and they may come up with something we should be doing, which has so far passed us by. In the end, we want to come up with a new and improved retail mix.”

He added that he did not envisage any problems with the proposals being approved by Allerdale planning officers, and refused to comment on whether the opening of the Debenhams store in Workington in August has sparked the refurbishment. Dunmail Park was built 18 years ago on the site of the old Cumberland Cloth factory.

ARichardson@cngroup.co.uk

Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk