BUSINESSES and members of the public are being invited to an open event being billed as one which will help shape the future of Eden.

The Eden District Council Plan consultation event takes place at Rheged on Tuesday 1 October, with three separate sessions to allow a range of conversations with members of the public, key partners and stakeholders.

Each of the sessions will include a presentation from the leader and deputy leader of the council on the draft Council Plan with opportunities for discussion and feedback, as well as a focus on sustainability and working towards a zero carbon Eden.

The Plan sets out actions for the Council over the next four years, ensuring that the needs of people in the region are met and that the well-being of future generations is looked after.

The morning of the event (7.45am-11am) will be dedicated to local businesses, with additional presentations from Jo Lappin, Chief Executive of the Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, looking at the local industrial strategy and the challenges and opportunities facing the Cumbrian economy, and experts from web company TheIdol.com discuss promoting a creative culture to boost staff engagement and recruitment.

The early afternoon session (2pm-4.30pm) will be open to council partners and individuals, and will also include an opportunity to browse a selection of information stalls from local organisations and a chance to network.

The evening session (6.30pm-9.15pm), specifically for community organisations and local councils, will also include presentations focusing on sustainable communities, community-led housing, and the Warm Homes Eden project and Affordable Warmth Partnership.