Use local firms in Cumbria clean-up says PSP

LOCAL suppliers and contractors should be used in the multi-million pound restoration of flood-damaged West Cumbria, a business group has said

Private Sector Partners, which speaks for 140,000 companies in the North West, argues that public agencies, such as the Northwest Regional Development Agency, must ensure money to repair and restore flooded towns and villages is retained within the community.

PSP founder and leader Len Collinson says it is vital that local businesses benefit from the restoration efforts, and is calling for a joined-up approach from the government agencies involved.

He said: “By employing local labour and firms the cash will be recycled within the county. Small firms are the engine room of the economy. They will recover faster if local businesses are at the forefront of the campaign to get West Cumbria back fit and firing.

“The clean-up operation for homes, business premises and the county’s infrastructure is a huge undertaking and many millions will be spent. This is a real opportunity for Cumbria to regenerate itself. Also, many small firms are among the hardest hit and need the support.”