AN URBAN regeneration company is to be formed to spearhead initiatives to boost the economies of Furness and West Cumbria.
The county council-backed company will seek to reverse the industrial decline and job losses which the areas have suffered over recent years.
Council leader Rex Toft said private sector funding for capital projects would be critical to the success of the project.
"The task is a huge one.
We need people dedicated to securing that private sector investment and involvement and to ensuring that projects are delivered on time and to a standard."
The council has put its money where its mouth is by committing £1.5 million to the initiative.
The urban regeneration company is expected to be formed by the end of this month.
Coun Toft said the search would also start for a chief executive: "We want someone who can deliver success and make a difference."
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