Cumbria Day, also known as Cumbria’s Going for Growth Showcase, took place in Westminster on March 4. Bringing together key political figures to highlight the region’s economic potential. The event aimed to strengthen relationships between local leaders and politicians, policy makers, and businesses based in the capital.
Attendees included Tim Farron MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale, Michelle Scrogham MP for Barrow and Furness, and Councillor Jonathan Brook, leader of Westmorland and Furness Council. Hosted by Josh MacAlister MP for Whitehaven and Workington, the day focused on promoting investment opportunities in Cumbria and addressing challenges faced by the county.
Showcasing Cumbria’s Economic Potential
Cumbria Day served as a platform to bring the rural county to the forefront of political attention in Westminster. Michelle Scrogham emphasised the importance of the event in ensuring that rural areas like Cumbria are not overlooked by central government.
“By bringing Cumbria to London, it puts us at the forefront of the minds of MPs, ministers, and officials,” she said, highlighting the need for greater recognition and support for the region.
Lobbying for Better Funding and Support
Tim Farron used the event to lobby the Government to reverse a 31% funding cut to Westmorland and Furness Council. He also advocated for improved support for smaller rural businesses, which he described as too often neglected.
“My main work on the day was to lobby Government to undo their 31% cut to Westmorland and Furness Council’s budgets and to fight for a far better deal for smaller rural businesses,” Farron stated.
The Liberal Democrat-led Westmorland and Furness Council recently passed its 2026/27 budget, which councillors described as ‘enforced austerity’ due to these funding cuts.
Strengthening Regional Influence
Councillor Jonathan Brook, leader of Westmorland and Furness Council, described Cumbria Day as “a great success.” He stressed the importance of engaging with Westminster decision makers to increase focus and investment in the region.
“Cumbria is a nationally significant investment destination, and we must continually bang the drum and make that case or else we will be left behind,” Brook said, underlining the need for ongoing advocacy to secure the county’s future prosperity.
