Cumberland Council’s Executive has agreed how communities in West Cumbria will benefit from more than £1.7m from Sellafield funding.
The money, which is over £750k more than in previous years, is provided as part of Sellafield’s Social Impact Investment Fund (SIIF), and can be used to support a wide range of initiatives across the former Allerdale and Copeland areas.
The funding will be directed towards three key areas that align with both the Council’s strategic priorities and Sellafield’s Social Impact Strategy.
The largest portion—over £1.27m—will be invested in sporting, leisure, and cultural development, helping to improve health and wellbeing and foster thriving communities. A further £305k will support regeneration and economic development, to support local economies and sustainable growth.
An additional £197k will be used to support social inclusion activities and provide vital help to the community and voluntary sector.
Speaking at the meeting of the Executive on 11 September, Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council, said: "This funding is a real boost for our communities. It allows us to continue supporting the projects that matter most to local people—from sports and leisure to economic regeneration and community wellbeing. We’re pleased to work alongside Sellafield Ltd to ensure this investment delivers real, lasting impact across West Cumbria."