The 10-year strategy, developed in conjunction with a team of experts led by Mott McDonald, sets out the council’s economic priorities for the area, as well as how the council will help businesses and the area’s economy recover from the coronavirus pandemic.

By 2031, the council’s economic vision is for an economy “which is strong, diversified and well connected, with a growing and highly skilled population. Employment levels will be high with skills attainment well matched to local employment needs.”

The strategy also sets out ambitions to ensure the area benefits from clean energy and manufacturing opportunities, as well as a strong tourism industry.

The strategy also seeks to ensure the area enjoys prosperous and resilient towns, flourishing rural communities and has a high quality of life for all residents which is underpinned by outstanding public services, affordable and well-designed housing, and development which is sensitive to the heritage and natural environment.  

To achieve this the strategy sets out six strategic objectives. These are:  

• Clean growth and the low carbon economy 
• Growing and future proofing Allerdale’s manufacturing base  
• Support agriculture to grow and prosper post EU exit  
• Harnessing changing lifestyle and working patterns to diversify and grow the economy  
• Creating thriving visitor destinations, towns and rural communities
• Sharing the proceeds of growth  

Speaking at the Executive meeting of Wednesday, 12 May 2021, where the report was being considered, council leader, Mike Johnson, said: “I believe that this piece of work results in a compelling economic vision for Allerdale and sets out roadmap for delivery over the coming years. The document builds on the previous strategy and builds on the successful bids to the Stronger Towns Fund and the Future High Streets Fund. 

“We are under no illusions that the next few years could present many economic challenges for this area. But we believe that the objectives we have identified in this strategy present the best way to improve our economic future. It will continue to build on our strengths in tourism and manufacturing and provide greater focus on emerging opportunities.  

“We know that we can’t deliver all of the objectives and actions in this strategy alone however, and we look forward to working with a wide range of stakeholders to bring about our economic vision.” 

Mott McDonald have also been involved in the development of the Workington Town Investment Plan which is a key part of the strategy and will see more than £20m invested into the town. 

The strategy can be found on the council’s website at: www.allerdale.gov.uk.