We are ambitious for everyone. We will focus on identifying and delivering the outcomes that our communities want to see. We will support our workforce to innovatively transform services for the better, enabling residents and visitors to have healthy, happy lives.
Our council
"As a brand-new council, we have an opportunity to create a fresh vision for our communities and residents, and work with them to deliver that vision."
Shona, Children's Services
Together we are Ambitious
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Situated amidst the picturesque Lake District and the Furness Peninsula, our location provides easy access to stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
The strength of our council is in its people. We boast a wide array of community groups, ranging from choirs to football clubs, mental health support groups to local Pride organisations, all dedicated to addressing the diverse needs of our community.
Our mission is to empower our communities to flourish, ensuring that Westmorland and Furness is a great place to live, work and thrive.
Our values
Our vision for Westmorland and Furness is to be a great place to live, work and thrive.
We are a caring council and believe that everyone matters. We will empower and inspire communities to thrive. Our values underpin everything we do and will guide us in delivering our vision.
Ambitious
Needs-led
We will intervene early to prevent harm, act in an equitable way leaving no-one behind, and enable all to ask for help in order to gain access to the right service, in the right place at the right time.
Responsible
We are responsible socially, environmentally, and financially. Providing leadership in the drive to become carbon neutral and delivering value for money in everything we do. We will make the best and most efficient use of our resources, while making sustainable decisions and striving to deliver on our promises to you.
Outcome focused
We are outcome focused and we will focus on identifying and leading the delivery of the changes that our communities want to see.
Collaborative
We will work with partners, communities, and residents to deliver the best outcomes for all.
Inclusive
We will be an inclusive council and will work collectively with partners to challenge each other to improve diversity and eliminate all forms of discrimination in our organisations and through local leadership increase participation in local decision making within underrepresented communities.
Ecologically aware
We will provide leadership in the drive to become carbon net zero and sustainable.
Our location
Westmorland and Furness Council serves the people of Barrow, Eden, and South Lakeland.
On our coast lies Barrow-in-Furness, bustling with shipbuilding and innovative sub-sea technology industries. Inland, South Lakeland and Eden boast rural landscapes and a thriving visitor and cultural economy.
Every corner, from towns to tiny hamlets, brims with unique communities – each one welcoming, proud and resilient, with ambitions for the future. Nearly all have their own town council, parish council or parish meeting, giving them a local voice in shaping their surroundings.
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Our offices
From beautiful buildings to modern breakout areas, our offices are designed to provide our employees with dedicated spaces to collaborate, socialise and have the technology they need to deliver high quality work.
Our offices are close to local amenities and accessible to residents, visitors and our employees alike. At Westmorland and Furness we have the commitment and technology to allow and encourage our employees, role permitting, to utilise flexible and agile working.
Here are a few of our office locations.
Town Hall, Barrow-in-Furness
Barrow Town Hall is a symbol of community and tradition. Located in the heart of Barrow-in-Furness, it reflects Victorian architecture with its grand facade and clock tower. The town hall serves as a hub for local governance and cultural events, hosting meetings and celebrations for residents. Its historic charm and central role in community life make it a cherished landmark in Barrow.
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South Lakeland House, Kendal
South Lakeland House is the administrative hub of Westmorland and Furness Council. It's a modern office in the heart of Kendal equipped with meeting rooms, break out areas, and kitchens on every floor. Serving as a central point for local government operations, it supports essential administrative functions, promotes community engagement, and reflects our commitment to transparency and accountability.
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Town Hall, Penrith
Penrith Town Hall, with its distinctive clock tower, stands as a symbol of civic pride and heritage in Penrith, hosting various functions and ceremonies that contribute to the vibrant local life of the town. Beyond its administrative functions, Penrith Town Hall plays a vital role in the cultural life of the community. It serves as a venue for a wide range of events, including concerts, exhibitions, weddings, and community gatherings.
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Our council in numbers
- How many residents? 225,000
- How many employees? 3500
- How many councillors? 65
- How many people 65+ years old? 59,400
- How large is Westmorland and Furness? 3,754 km2
- How many people live in rural areas: 55%
- How many people in the largest town of Barrow? 55,800
- How many businesses? 11,815 providing 114,000 jobs
- How many working aged people? 123,777
- We have the UK’s biggest shipyard
- We have a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- How many primary schools? 122
- How many secondary schools? 20
- How many special schools? 3