Consultation is due to start on how up to £3 million of Borderlands funding could be spent within Longtown.

The residents and businesses of Longtown are currently being asked for their opinions on Longtown, how it could be improved and how the Borderlands funding could be used to help boost the economy of the area.

Volunteers for a ‘Town Team’ to help design the ‘Place Plan’ for Longtown are also sought. The first consultation event will be held at 10.30am this Saturday, May 21 at Longtown Community Centre.

The consultation sessions will result in the production of a ‘Place Plan’ at the end of the year.

READ MORE: Egremont, Penrith and Wigton to benefit from Borderlands deal

Leader of Carlisle City Council, councillor John Mallinson, said: "It’s important that the residents and businesses in Longtown have their say on how they want the town improved in the future.

"The Borderlands funding will provide welcomed investment in the area and how it should be spent should be determined by the local communities."

A 'Place Plan' is a document which will outline the 10–20-year vision for Longtown as well as outline projects that are eligible for Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal funding.

The Place Plan will be tailored to the unique features of Longtown, outlining how the town will build upon its assets and strengths to address its challenges.

READ MORE: Penrith's plans ahead of the Borderlands Place Programme

As a community led process, the development of the Place Plan will involve extensive community consultation to ensure that the eventual projects match the needs and ambitions of the local community.

As part of the growth deal, £50 million has been allocated to the Place Programme. The Place Programme aim is to recognise the importance that smaller rural market and coastal towns have to the local economy of the Borderlands and help revitalise these towns across the Borderlands region.

READ MORE: Carlisle MP asks if city could benefit from 'Borderlands Mark II'

The Place Programme selected 21 Places to receive up to £3 million Borderlands funding. Towns were selected for funding using a prioritisation methodology.

Funding comes from the £452 million Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal signed in March 2021.The growth deal was signed between the UK and Scottish governments and the five councils of the Borderlands Partnership.