[C]umbria Local Enterprise Partnership has welcomed a second visit to the county by Northern Powerhouse minister Jake Berry MP as an opportunity for government to see what it has to offer.
Following the minister’s visit to Carlisle Airport and the University of Cumbria earlier in the summer, Mr Berry was given a first-hand opportunity to see the growth potential and excellence of Copeland and West Cumbria’s nuclear industry, as well as development plans for Whitehaven.
The visit culminated in a business dinner for the minister hosted by Copeland MP Trudy Harrison at the newly refurbished Rosehill Theatre in Whitehaven.
Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership chair George Beveridge said: “The tour of Copeland, together with the dinner which followed, was another opportunity for local economic development, industry and business leaders to showcase the county’s capabilities and potential, especially in terms of nuclear expertise.”
With growth deal funding of £4.5m, Cumbria LEP is investing in Whitehaven Town Centre as part of a broader package of town centre developments.
It is focusing on the delivery of a new, high quality harbourside office scheme, offering accommodation to companies moving into the area to benefit from the nuclear and energy sector.
Mr Beveridge added: “The minister was very impressed with our plans for Whitehaven harbour and how the growth deal project we have out together is shaping up, particularly with regard to attracting private sector engagement.
“We were pleased to help co-ordinate another Northern Powerhouse visit which has clearly demonstrated opportunities for business growth in West Cumbria.”
For further details about Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, go to www.cumbrialep.co.uk
