The Rt Hon Ed Miliband is heading to Carlisle to headline Cumberland’s first ever Economic Summit.

Organised by Cumberland Council, the full-day event on on Thursday, February 29, will offer crucial discussions on unlocking opportunities for the local community.

The shadow secretary of state of climate change and net zero, Mr Miliband, will be joined by additional speakers, including Carlisle MP, John Stevenson, leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fyer, and Cumberland Council’s chief executive, Andrew Seekings.

Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said: "Working with local businesses and organisations, we want to build on our priority to deliver an inclusive economy that works for local people.

"We need their knowledge and expertise so that we can put in place an economic strategy that works for Cumberland.

"We need them to be part of the conversation and we encourage sign-up to the event.

"Register soon, as places will be limited."

Phil Laycock, director of UKREiiF/Built Environment Networking Limited, will act as the MC for the event.

The Summit will link in with Cumberland Council’s Cumberland Plan, 'ensuring strategic partners and stakeholders have the opportunity to help develop a clear vision' for the area.

It aims to generate opportunities for residents, businesses, social enterprises as well as community and voluntary sectors.

Set to take place at the Civic Centre, Rickergate, Carlisle between 9am and 4.30pm, the Summit will feature a series of facilitated breakout sessions themed on six key areas including:

  • Clean and Green Investment in Cumberland
  • Climate Change and Nature
  • Place Making
  • Destination Management and Place Promotion
  • Transport and Infrastructure
  • Skills and Enterprise

The event can be found on Eventbrite.