WORK on a stalled multi-million-pound project on the edge of Ulverston is set to begin in the new year.

Building works are set to restart on the £4.6m Blue Light Hub following months of delays.

The development, when complete, will provide emergency service coverage for more than 6,000 people.

Ground was broken on the site in February 2017 with it expected to open in May last year.

However, a dispute between the contractor Aspect Construction and Cumbria County Council saw tools down in August 2018.

Aspect claimed the council has not paid them for unforeseen expenses but this was disputed by the council.

Since then, no further progress has been made to create a new base for police, fire and ambulance services with the site an empty shell.

Now, a Cumbria County Council spokesman said a new contractor, Caddick Construction, has been appointed to complete the work.

County councillor Mark Wilson said he suggested the company could be used as they are already involved with the adjacent Beehive business park.

"I am very pleased that they have got it moving for the final stages and I am looking forward to seeing it when it's all done," he said.

A Cumbria County Council spokesman said: “The county council has appointed Caddick Construction to complete the construction work on the Furness Peninsular Blue Light Hub.

“Caddick is in the process of assessing the construction works which have been undertaken to date, finalising any remedial works required, completing outstanding design activities, securing subcontractors and finalising the new programme of work and associated costs.

"Construction is expected to begin in early 2020.”

It is planned to become a new base for Cumbria Fire Service to replace its base on The Ellers and a new base for the North West Ambulance Service, replacing the facilities at Victoria Road.

It will also provide facilities for Cumbria police and office accommodation for Cumbria County Council.