THE wheels are in motion for two Furness towns to be transformed by £6 million in funding.

Dalton and Ulverston could each gain £3million after being put forward for money as part of the Government's Borderlands Investment scheme.

Cumbria County Council yesterday signed a deal with the Government that will see £350 million invested into the county as well as areas over the border in Scotland.

£18 million has been available for towns in Cumbria, with bids due to be submitted for a share of the money.

A board of community stakeholders in Dalton has been set up ahead of drawing up a business case for a bid.

Residents will also be consulted on what could be done with the investment.

Dalton North councillor Ben Shirley said: "It's a really exciting prospect for Dalton and it's looking really good.

"We are working together to put the best bid.

"It's further indication that the Government is committed to 'levelling up'.

"We'll consult with residents - I'm confident people of Dalton know the area best."

Community leaders in Ulverston are also working on a bid.

Projects have already been agreed in the deal for Cumbria, including £32.2 million to address the gaps in digital and mobile infrastructure across the Borderlands.

Other infrastructure projects in Carlisle worth £70 million have also been agreed.

On signing the deal, Cllr Stewart Young, the leader of Cumbria County Council said: “This is a key milestone in a long journey, and fantastic news for the county, resulting from close working with the UK and Scottish Governments over several months and years to get to this point.

“It is very welcome that we now have confirmed levels of funding for our Cumbria specific projects and I’m really looking forward to seeing how they each develop and the many benefits that they will bring to the county.

“The deal is ambitious and will bring a much-needed economic boost post Covid-19 to aid our recovery in attracting tourists and businesses to come to Cumbria as well as enhancing the area for our residents and local communities.”