PLANS for West Cumbria's multi-billion pound tidal lagoon could be pushed back following a delay in the developer's pilot project.

The building of a £1 billion tidal energy lagoon in Swansea Bay, South Wales, has been delayed by a year as negotiations continue over the level of Government funding for the project. 

It could mean work on the local lagoon, planned to be built off the Workington coast, could be delayed as a result.

Developers Tidal Lagoon Power decided to push back construction, as talks are ongoing over how much electricity subsidy will be paid.

Work was due to get under way in 2016.

A spokesman for the firm said that detailed design work on Swansea Bay was almost done and the construction programme has been integrated.

The end of this phase means they will be ready to build once the remaining permissions have been given.

The firm hopes to turn the power on at the lagoon in 2021.

A spokesman added: "Following our first phase of engagement in West Cumbria we are confident that a tidal lagoon in the area could deliver a range of economic, social and environmental benefits.

"That's our goal. But our short-term priority has to be the construction of our first project in Swansea Bay and progressing further plans to harness the country's best tidal range resource in the Severn Estuary. 

"These projects establish a new global industry led by the UK and pave the way for lagoons in West Cumbria and around the world."

The Workington scheme, one of six planned around the UK, is due to be developed between the Port of Workington and Dubmill Point, near Allonby.

Tidal Lagoon Power had hoped it would be operational by 2023.

Feasibility work on the project is ongoing. 

It is thought it could create thousands of local jobs.

The project would be a larger version of the Swansea Bay lagoon and would power homes throughout its 120-year life. 

Giant sea walls would capture tides that could generate over two gigawatts of power. 

Plans also include up to 90 turbines set within the breakwater. Benefits would include cheaper electricity tariffs in the local area.

It could also feature public amenities, tourist attractions and diversity schemes such as biofuels through marine farming.