A cross-party group of Cumbrian MPs have come together for an update on their area’s economic priorities.
Today, Cumbria’s six MPs met with the Chairman of Cumbria LEP, Lord Richard Inglewood and chief executive Jo Lappin to continue discussions on how to deliver economic growth across the county.
During the meeting, which was organised by Copeland’s MP Trudy Harrison, the MPs were updated on the Local Industrial Strategy – a key document that maps out the county’s economic priorities to deliver jobs, increase business growth and skills, and secure improved infrastructure and housing.
The meeting was also a chance for the MPs to raise any issues directly affecting the economic development of their constituencies.
Mrs Harrison, said: “I know I speak an awful lot about ‘one Cumbria’, but I do feel it’s essential for our county to be working collaboratively.
“As Lord Inglewood mentioned, one of the great challenges to overcome is how nuclear, tourism, defence and farming can all benefit Cumbria.
“As six MPs who care deeply about our area we are increasingly working together and it is starting to make a positive difference. I commend Cumbria LEP for travelling down to Westminster to engage with us all.”
The MPs also heard about the Strengthened Local Enterprise Partnerships review which sets out how government and Local Enterprise Partnerships will work together to strengthen leadership and capability.
Last week, Lord Inglewood addressed more than 70 business owners and public as well as voluntary and community sector partners at Cumbria LEP’s AGM in Penrith.
The former minister spoke of how Cumbria's Local Enterprise Partnership is changing to meet the new expectations of the Government, describing Cumbria’s economy as having the ‘potential to go further, faster’ with an aim to be ‘more collaborative, consultative, communicative and challenging’ to ensure the best strategy for Cumbria.
