Last updated 16:48, Monday, 19 May 2008

WHITEHAVEN’S regeneration plans are to be shown at a special business summit.

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Organised by Copeland Council, it is on Thursday, June 12 and aims to encourage closer working between businesses and regeneration partners.

There will be a drop-in session, between 2pm and 6pm, at which people can learn about the Whitehaven Regeneration programme, followed by a formal meeting between 6pm-8pm, opened by Copeland MP Jamie Reed.

As well as the regeneration plans information will be available about services to businesses that the council and its partners can offer.

The event has been staged by the council in response to recent feedback from local businesses and is designed to raise awareness, encourage partnership working and to ensure that both businesses and regeneration partners work together.

Coun Tim Knowles, Copeland’s portfolio holder for regeneration and tourism said: “The regeneration will see investment of around £100m over the next few years, and massive improvements in the town’s retail, tourism and housing .

“It’s crucial that local businesses, an other stakeholders, are involved and able to have their say.

“I am delighted that The Whitehaven News and West Lakes Renaissance are supporting this event.

“The Whitehaven News has been campaigning for all partners to work together, and I am confident this event will ensure we do just that.”

Paul Crooks, programme development manager for Whitehaven at West Lakes Renaissance, said: “There is a huge amount going on to improve the economic prospects of the town.

“We have recently marketed Pow Beck Gardens to developers – the initial residential and commercial phase of the Pow Beck Valley regeneration scheme – and good progress is being made on other elements of the regeneration scheme.

“It is vital that local businesses and residents take an active role and work with us to help shape the future of the town,

“Ultimately they will benefit from the significant investment that is taking place.” For further information telephone Ian Curwen on 01946 598504 or Sherrie Lewthwaite on 01946 598444.