£1 million is being spent on refurbishing Barrow’s windfarm operation hub – signifying a ‘long-term commitment’ to the area.

Bosses at Ørsted have revealed that the sum is being spent on major improvements to its windfarm’s land base in Ramsey Way after a proposal to re-develop the building was submitted.

The energy giant has put forward a number of changes to the site including: a new mezzanine floor to form a technical training facility; maximising office space; improving the canteen facilities; and two new car parks comprising of 94 spaces alongside electrical vehicle charging points.

A spokesman for Ørsted said the investment represents a ‘long-term commitment’ to the Barrow area.

Howard Shields, head of UK West Operations at Ørsted, said: “The refurbishment work at our Barrow operations hub is another step in our long-term commitment to the area, our staff and to our windfarms on the west coast.

“The majority of our team at Barrow live locally and there is a tremendous sense of pride about the work that we do in the region.

“We wanted to reflect this by ensuring our staff have the best possible working environment and state-of-the-art facilities.

“As well as being a vital tool in the fight again climate change, the offshore wind industry is also playing an important role in the regeneration of coastal communities across the UK.

"Since the facility was first built in 2007, we have invested about £8million – including just over £1 million as part of the latest phase – using local contractors wherever possible.”

Simon Fell, MP for Barrow and Furness, welcomed the million-pound investment.

He said: “This is very welcome investment from a company that is integral to Barrow’s future as a green energy hub.

"Charities, schools and firms across Furness benefit from Ørsted’s community fund and this investment shows that the firm is here to stay, working in and supporting our community now and in the future.”