The approach will also reduce the time taken to initiate and complete projects.

The regeneration area covers the coastal strip to the west of the Lake District from Barrow in the south to Silloth in the north.

The individual projects expected to be commissioned within the regeneration programme include:

. Regeneration of the Whitehaven area, including a transport interchange, sports facilities and town centre infrastructure.

. The preparation of conservation plans and the refurbishment of listed historic buildings.

. Assistance in the regeneration of Barrow.

. Implementation of the masterplan development for the Port of Workington, including new and refurbished quay structures, flood defences, an opening bridge, heavy duty paving and other port infrastructure.

. Development at a number of small harbours, including new marina facilities at Maryport and Harrington.

. The development of a new university for Cumbria.

The consortium will, depending on the allocation of individual projects, provide a range of services from business planning to architecture and engineering consultancy.

To support its role in heading up the consortium, Royal Haskoning plans to open up a new office in the Whitehaven area. This will complement its new office in Barrow-in-Furness and expands further the company's presence in the north of England.