MP CALLS ON PRIME MINISTER TO BRING GREEN BANK TO KENDAL

Local MP Tim Farron has written to the Prime Minister and other members of the Government today, calling on them to make Kendal the site of the new Green Investment Bank.

Tim cited theSouthLakes' world leading experience in green technologies, such as the pioneering work being done in hydropower by Gilkes of Kendal, alongside the exceptional schools, shops and transport links in our area. Tim's letter, which has also been sent to the Deputy Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer, is part of Tim's campaign to bring well paid jobs to the local area.

The new bank, which was formally announced in the 2011 budget, aims to accelerate private sector investment in theUK's transition to a green economy. It will have initial funding of £3bn up to 2015 and will begin initial operations in 2012. Sectors likely to be eligible for intervention include offshore wind, non-domestic energy efficiency and waste.

Tim said: "The Green Investment Bank is an exciting opportunity to help build the UK's future economy and I can't think of a more ideal location for it than right here in the South Lakes! Those of us who are lucky enough to live and work here, already know what a special place our community is and I am determined to spread that message to the Government. Bringing well paid jobs to the South Lakes is an important priority for me and I will continue to fight hard for our area."