Welcome to Westmorland and Furness

By geography, Westmorland and Furness Council is the third largest local authority in England with a population of 225,000 people. We are home to the country’s most stunning landscapes, which inspire the most hi-tech and sustainable businesses. Barrow-in-Furness is a hub of industry and the home of UK submarine manufacturing with massive investment now setting the town on the path towards becoming a new powerhouse for the North. Kendal, Ulverston and Penrith are thriving market towns nestled between the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Parks.

Westmorland and Furness Council is part of the Devolution Priority Programme which will form a new Mayoral Combined Authority in Cumbria in 2026, bringing new powers and funding to the county. Together with partners we have a unique opportunity to create a new vision for our residents and businesses and identify and explore new ways in which we can support and enable development.

Our world-leading industries draw inspiration from our remarkable landscape, with global brands including Aqua Pura, Anord Mardix, BAE Systems, Gilkes, James Cropper, Kendal Nutricare, Kimberly-Clark, Lakeland, Oxley and many more. There are great opportunities for other ambitious businesses, investors and developers to tap into the potential of our part of the UK.

The scale of our growth and creation of thousands of new jobs requires supporting investment in housing and regeneration to to attract people, skills and business to Westmorland and Furness.

Inclusive and Green Economic Growth Strategy

We’re pleased to announce the launch of our new Inclusive and Green Economic Growth Strategy for Westmorland and Furness (2026-35)

The strategy sets out our long-term vision for a stronger, more inclusive and more sustainable economy across Westmorland and Furness over the next decade. It has been co-developed by Westmorland and Furness Council in collaboration with our partners, businesses and the wider community, identifying opportunity areas for investment and development.

Whether you are looking to start-up, grow or relocate to our area, we’re keen to hear from you – join our journey to unlock Westmorland and Furness’ potential!