A survey by the National Park Authority (NPA) is taking place in the Lake District to identify land that could be used as sites for two business parks and a start-up incubator business park.

It is estimated that a number of sites will need to be converted into business premises by 2021 in order to sustain the Lake District's economy.

The survey, which involves landowners being contacted by the NPA, is being funded by the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA).

Peter White, a spokesman for the NWDA, said that diversifying and strengthening the Lake District's economic base is essential.

Last month, Stuart Burgess, chair of the Commission for Rural Communities, said the UK's rural economy should not be underestimated.

He told BBC Two's Working Lunch that the rural economy, which contributes £325 billion to the national coffers, has "huge potential".

"It's about investment, it's about making sure that broadband is available ... and it's about encouraging innovators to actually use their skills in rural areas," he stated.