Framing a place-based investment strategy for Cumberland

Cumberland faces a critical productivity challenge. Labour productivity in the region stands at £32.1 GVA per hour, significantly below both the North West (£39.3) and UK (£41.9) averages, with growth stagnating since 2008. This underperformance is compounded by poor transport and digital infrastructure, fragmented investment strategies, and demographic pressures from an ageing population.

Yet, the story is not all negative. Cumberland boasts exceptional natural capital, ranking in the top 30% nationally, and has strong community networks and proactive local leadership. These assets provide a foundation for sustainable growth, particularly in sectors such as clean energy, digital technology and advanced manufacturing, where the region already shows competitive strengths.

Our analysis highlights several key challenges:

• Connectivity gaps: Broadband coverage and rural transport links are among the weakest in the UK.
• Skills and inclusion: Higher-level qualifications lag behind regional averages, while child poverty and educational disparities persist.
• Underutilised natural capital: Despite its environmental wealth, Cumberland has yet to fully integrate natural assets into economic planning.

The opportunities are clear. By reframing Cumberland’s narrative, diversifying its economy beyond tourism and investing in digital and transport infrastructure, the region can attract talent and green investment. Strategic actions include:

• Short term: Support deprived communities, identify sector champions and boost entrepreneurship.
• Medium term: Expand high-speed broadband, improve rural transport and develop co-working hubs.
• Long term: Foster university-industry collaboration, promote innovation hubs and leverage natural capital for resilience and growth.

Cumberland is at a crossroads. With coordinated policy, inclusive regeneration, and a focus on green and digital skills, the region can move from “falling behind” to “catching up,” positioning itself as a resilient, forward-looking economy ready to embrace the future.

Authors Marianne Sensier, Kate Penney, Michael Francis, Abhi Sharma, Alfonso Silva Ruiz, Philip McCann

Part of the Investment in Places Campaign.