One of the fiercest opponents of a council scheme to develop surplus land is now backing the project.

Councillor Mark Jenkinson openly criticised the effectiveness of Allerdale Investment Partnership (AIP) when he was an opposition councillor during the previous Labour administration.

But now he is the second in command at the Independent-Conservative leading coalition at Allerdale council, he is backing the partnership.

The AIP is a joint venture between the council and IAGH3. The aim is to sell and develop the council’s surplus land.The only completed project is Maryport’s Lidl, but the venture is working on delivering a 290-home development in Workington and is behind the development of a Travelodge, drive-through Costa and Marstons pub opposite Allerdale House.

Coun Jenkinson had previously said the council had been sold “unicorns and jam” when they set up the venture. But now he said changes were lined up to make it more effective.

He said: “We’re working on a new council plan and the priorities of the AIP will align with that. It will go out to consultation.” He added there had been a perception that land had been sold for less than it was worth, but that will not happen in the future.