West Cumbria

West Cumbria is a region defined by its coastal setting, nearby upland landscapes, and a long history of industry and community life. Located along the Cumbrian coastline and adjacent to the western edge of the Lake District, it brings together small towns and rural areas. Towns such as Whitehaven, Workington, and Maryport reflect the area’s heritage in mining, manufacturing, and maritime activity, while also showing evidence of gradual economic change over time.

The geography and industrial legacy of West Cumbria continue to shape local economic changes, particularly in terms of tourism and industry. West Cumbria’s role in the UK’s nuclear industry remains significant, contributing to both local employment and broader regional planning. At the same time, the region faces a number of socio-economic and place-based challenges, including pockets of deprivation, limited transport connectivity, and uneven access to skills and employment pathways. These issues highlight ongoing concerns about fairness, inclusion, and the distribution of opportunities, themes at the heart of the JUST Centre in relation to environmental and social justice.