West Cumbria Strategic Forum (WCSF)
On 1 November 2004, Government signed a Memorandum of agreement with West Cumbria Partners that included the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority and West Cumbria local authorities, to safeguard West Cumbria’s economic prosperity.
The agreement was signed at the first meeting of the West Cumbria Strategic Forum, which exists to facilitate cooperation between all the bodies involved with regeneration in West Cumbria. The Strategic Forum’s primary aim is to help create a sustainable economy, taking into account the threats and opportunities that nuclear decommissioning brings to an area so heavily dependent on the nuclear industry.
On 23 July 2008, the West Cumbrian Spatial Masterplan “Britain’s Energy Coast” was launched at the Sellafield visitor’s centre in West Cumbria.
The West Cumbria Strategic Forum initiated the plan, which sets out the strategies the West Cumbrian partners have identified as being important for the regeneration of the area. The plan’s vision is set out in terms of economic growth, environmental sustainability and management, and in meeting the UK’s long-term energy needs. It is essentially a prospectus for change and a blueprint for the future of West Cumbria.
According to the Masterplan, West Cumbria will aim to:
- be globally recognised as a leading nuclear, energy, environment and technology business region, building on its nuclear assets, its technology and research strengths
- be a strong, diversified and well-connected economy, with a growing, highly skilled population, and high employment
- project a positive image to the world, and be recognised by all as an area of scientific excellence, outstanding natural beauty and vibrant lifestyle, which attracts a diverse population
- provide opportunities for all its communities, where geography is not a barrier to achievement and where deprivation, inequality and social immobility are reduced.