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01/10/03 - Copeland economy under the spotlight

Copeland’s economy was the subject at a recent conference sponsored jointly by Cumbria County Council and Copeland Borough Council at West Lakes Science Park in Whitehaven.  It received presentations from Council Officers on the forecast loss of 8,000 jobs in the nuclear industry over the next 15 years.  Not surprisingly the focus of the Conference was on how to create new jobs in Copeland to diversify the employment base.  

Key points from the morning session were:

  •       Helen Costa from the DTI highlighted the potential of the location of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority in West Cumbria and the associated clean up operation at Sellafield.  There was the possibility of attracting new 
    businesses and of developing a regional centre of excellence for linked skills with its base at Westlakes
  •       The North West Development Agency acknowledged the need for public sector investment in West Cumbria.  Cumbria Area Manager, Stewart Swift, called for a clear strategy from Cumbrian partners which everyone was prepared to sign up to
  •       Bob Pointing from West Lakes Renaissance had a substantial budget to invest in major projects such as Westlakes and the continuing regeneration of Whitehaven

The afternoon workshops provided feedback and ideas on new projects and action on the ground.  A common theme was the need to ensure that the existing workforce was able to benefit from those jobs that are created, so the future strategy needs to encompass training, education, and intermediate labour market schemes.

Councillor Norman Williams, Copeland Portfolio Holder for Business Growth, was pleased with the outcome.  He says

“We have a window of opportunity to diversify our economy before the main job losses occur in 2010.   This Conference was a positive step towards a practical action plan which local partners are committed to and will deliver”.

County Councillor Simon Leyton, Vice Chairman of Copeland Local Committee and Chair of the Local Committee’s Economic Development Sub Group welcomed the partnership approach.  He says

“The Conference was a chance to take stock and bring together a number of ideas.  We need to look to a future where those children now in primary school will leave school in 2010 onwards with the education and skills needed to find a secure future in the area”.

For more information please contact Nick Hardy, Community Development/Enterprise Officer for Cumbria County Council on 01228 6067345 or Bern Hellier at Copeland Borough Council on 01946 852639.