The ambitious document sets out how the county's economy will grow over the next two decades.

The Strategy for Growth and Progress for Cumbria will also look at how the area's environmental heritage can be sustained and further developed.

It has been drawn up by the county's strategic partnership and is being published at a special event at Carlisle Racecourse.

The plan will be used in lobbying for government and European aid.

'Unique county'

It includes priority areas covering the future of Barrow and west Cumbria, Carlisle, the Lake District National Park, rural regeneration and housing.

More then 70 separate organisations and agencies have contributed to the plan.

Bill Lowther, chairman of Cumbria Strategic Partnership, said: "More than 70 Cumbrian organisations took part in the consultations and more than 50 organisations will be signing up to it as the shared vision for our very special and unique county.

"I am confident that it will make a difference, not only because it's a truly forward looking piece of work, but also because it draws heavily on the creativity and knowledge of so many people living and working in Cumbria."

Mike Ash, deputy leader of Cumbria County Council and vice chairman of Cumbria Strategic Partnership, added: "A lot of really good work has gone into producing this vision.

"What it will do for Cumbria is set out some clear ideas about how the county should develop a sustainable economy and sustainable communities."