Whitehaven’s The Edge Receives Major Regional Award for Economic Impact
The Edge Activity Centre in Whitehaven has earned one of the region’s highest planning honours after being recognised for its outstanding contribution to economic development and waterfront regeneration.
The centre was named the winner of the Excellence in Planning for a Successful Economy category at the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) North West Awards for Planning Excellence 2026. The award celebrates projects that demonstrate exceptional planning while delivering long-term economic and social benefits for local communities.
Situated on Whitehaven Harbour, The Edge has quickly established itself as a popular destination for residents and visitors since opening. The facility offers a range of indoor and outdoor activities designed to encourage healthy lifestyles, promote tourism, and make greater use of the town’s scenic coastline.
Judges praised the project for successfully combining economic development with community engagement. They highlighted the centre’s ability to attract visitors, create opportunities for local businesses, and breathe new life into a key area of the harbour, helping to strengthen Whitehaven’s reputation as one of Cumbria’s leading coastal destinations.
The development was delivered through a partnership involving Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners, Cumberland Council, Sellafield Ltd’s Social Impact Multiplied (SiX) Fund, and the Coastal Communities Fund. The collaboration brought together public and private investment with the shared goal of creating a sustainable attraction that benefits both the local economy and the wider community.
In addition to winning the economy award, The Edge was also shortlisted in the Heritage and Culture category, reflecting the project’s success in respecting Whitehaven’s rich maritime heritage while introducing a modern facility for recreation, education, and community events.
Local leaders welcomed the recognition, describing it as a testament to the vision, dedication, and teamwork of everyone involved in the project. They said the award demonstrates how thoughtful planning and investment can deliver lasting benefits by encouraging tourism, creating jobs, and enhancing public spaces.
Since opening, The Edge has hosted a variety of activities, including paddle sports, climbing, community programmes, and educational events, attracting thousands of visitors and helping to increase footfall in the town centre. Businesses in the surrounding area have also benefited from the additional visitors drawn to the waterfront.
Officials hope the regional recognition will further raise Whitehaven’s profile and attract additional investment into the town, supporting ongoing regeneration projects and strengthening Cumbria’s tourism industry.
The award marks an important milestone for The Edge and reinforces its role as a flagship development that showcases how innovative planning and strong community partnerships can create lasting economic, social, and environmental benefits.
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