The new base for HM Coroner’s Service for Cumbria has been officially opened.
The modern and fit-for-purpose accommodation at Allerdale House in Workington was officially opened by Chief Coroner for England and Wales, Her Honour Judge Alexia Durran during a ceremony on Friday 20 February.
The service has just relocated to Workington from its former base in Station Road, Cockermouth, with inquests now being held there. The Cockermouth building was deemed no longer fit for purpose as it did not meet the needs of the service or service users for a number of reasons. These included the safety and security of HM Coroners and the team, the layout and facilities, accessibility, size and capacity to host larger inquests and primarily the issues arising from an ageing building that is beyond its reasonable lifespan.
Following the refurbishment of a section of Allerdale House, a building owned and operated by Cumberland Council, the new premises now boasts two court rooms, welcoming family rooms and modern office facilities, which will meet the needs of the service and those who use it now and, in the future.
The official opening event was attended by a number of local partner organisations who work closely with the Coroner’s service, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Cumbria, the High Sheriff of Cumbria, and representatives from other coronial services in the north of England. During her address at the event, HH Judge Durran praised the new facilities and congratulated all those who’d supported their creation.
Cllr Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said: “The new facilities are incredible. They are modern, welcoming and most importantly will meet the needs of the families, next of kin and friends of a deceased person, as well as the professionals, supporting these important processes. I want to congratulate all those involved in making the long-held vision to offer improved Coroner’s facilities become a reality.”
Following local government reorganisation (LGR) within Cumbria in 2023, and whilst the service is joint funded by Cumberland and Westmorland & Furness Councils, Cumberland Council was appointed as the ‘relevant authority’ for the HM Coroners area of Cumbria, and now acts as ‘host’ or lead authority for coronial services in Cumbria.
Cllr John Murray, Westmorland and Furness Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Regulatory Services, said: “The official opening of these new premises is a welcome step for HM Coroner’s Service. This is a vital service for people across Cumbria, and having modern, fit for purpose facilities will help provide the right environment for this work.
“We’re proud to work with Cumberland Council to support and strengthen a service that plays such an important role in the lives of communities across the county.”
The construction was carried out by local firm Thomas Armstrong Ltd and overall, the project has seen an investment of around £2 million. The building was designed by architects and engineers at Align Property Partners.
