Millions of pounds is being spent on reshaping Workington's historic town centre.

But the work, involving the demolition of several buildings, is causing a headache for businesses and visitors.

Allerdale Borough Council has issued a public apology ahead of the bulk of the work, due to begin next week.

Work on demolishing the old Cumbrian Co-op superstore building in the town centre is already well advanced.

The next phase of the development will see the loss of 143 spaces at Washington Street car park by the end of August.

'Major construction'

About 90 extra parking spaces have been made available at the former lorry park on the Cloffocks and an additional 50 spaces at the central car park to compensate.

Signs are also being erected to inform people of the changes and direct people to the other car parks.

Mike Phillips, the council's director of community services, said: "Major construction work inevitably means some disruption and we are sorry for that.

"However, we feel it will be worth it. By 2006, we will have a vibrant new town centre that can help give the town a new lease of life."

Other work due to start next week includes removal of the public seating areas to allow works vehicle access to the area.

During the rebuilding of the town centre, about 75% of the existing 1960s development will be demolished.

A new Debenhams store, due to open in 2006, will occupy part of the existing Washington Street car park site.