Cumbrian ‘energy coast’

Government ministers have endorsed the concept of West Cumbria becoming Britain’s ‘energy coast’.

At a meeting of the West Cumbria Strategic Forum chaired by trade and industry secretary Alistair Darling, Cumbrian MPs urged ministers to back plans which would bring investment and jobs to the area over the next 20 years.

It is said the plan could create 16,000 jobs and a £700m boost to Cumbria’s economy, and would include the creation of business parks, an academy for nuclear skills and a new hospital. The plan is in response to the ongoing decommissioning of the Sellafield nuclear plant, which is anticipated to have a negative effect on the economy of the area.

Up to £2.2bn could help fund the changes if the government backs the masterplan document.

By 2027 it is hoped West Cumbria will have become a world leader in energy provision but also have built on its nuclear heritage to attract a wider range of industries.