Rural development opportunities in Cumbria

Local Plans are the long-term blueprints that guide where development should take place, which areas should be protected, and the policies used to determine planning applications. They play a crucial role in balancing the need for new homes, infrastructure and economic growth with the protection of the landscapes and communities that make Cumbria unique.

A protected landscape

As one of England’s largest and most rural counties, around 95 per cent of Cumbria is classed as rural. It is also one of the UK’s most protected landscapes, with the Lake District National Park and three National Landscapes covering around half of the county.

Following local government reorganisation, Cumbria is now covered by two unitary authorities; Cumberland and Westmorland and Furness. Both authorities, alongside the wider Cumbria Combined Authority, will play an important role in shaping the county’s future through strategic planning for housing, employment, transport, infrastructure and economic growth.

The coming years will be particularly significant, with all three planning authorities preparing new Local Plans and the Government introducing tighter expectations around plan-making. For landowners, rural businesses and communities, this creates both challenges and opportunities.

Local Plans – what are the proposals?

Housing delivery will be a key focus, with the county facing pressure to identify sufficient sites to meet future needs. Alongside housing, the plans will need to address employment land, infrastructure requirements, environmental protection and how rural communities can continue to thrive.

However, Cumbria’s future is not just about meeting development targets. The county has significant opportunities to support rural enterprise, diversify land-based businesses and unlock sustainable growth.

From farm diversification and visitor economy projects to renewable energy, natural capital, specialist housing and new rural workplaces, there are many ways that landowners and businesses can respond to changing economic and policy landscapes.

The creation of new Local Plans provides an opportunity for proactive landowners and businesses to put forward ideas, influence future development strategies and ensure their ambitions are considered as part of Cumbria’s long-term vision.

Expertise required

At Rural Solutions, we work with rural landowners, estates and businesses to identify opportunities, navigate planning policy and deliver successful development projects. Our multidisciplinary team of planners, architects, landscape architects and consultants brings together specialist rural expertise to help clients achieve their ambitions.

Whether you are considering diversifying a rural business, developing land, creating a long-term estate strategy or exploring new opportunities, our team can help you understand the changing planning landscape and turn potential into practical solutions.

To find out how we can support your rural development goals, get in touch with our team via email info@ruralsolutions.co.uk or call us on 01756 797 501.

Sally Ormiston is a Director at Rural Solutions

Follow Sally on LinkedIn here.