8 IN VIEW
By Rob Kelly
DELIVERING STRENGTH IN DEPTH
The new North West Regional Defence and Security Cluster (NWRDSC) is looking to create opportunities to strengthen the region’s leading UK role in the sectors.
And that is proving an exciting prospect for Lancashire business leaders who see it as a potential ‘game-changer’ when it comes to attracting investment, strengthening supply chains and developing vital skills.
The NWRDSC is part of a nationwide network of defence and security clusters, supported by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the government’s Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA). Lancashire has played a major role in its development and, alongside the other counties in the North West, will be key to its success.
The cluster aims to further raise the profile of the North West’s capabilities in defence and security,
while fostering greater collaboration between businesses, academia, and government to drive investment and innovation in the region.
It was officially launched at an event at Sci-Tech Daresbury in Cheshire that attracted more than 130 attendees, including traditional and non-traditional defence and security businesses, academia, government agencies and research organisations.
A NEW ERA OF OPPORTUNITY FOR LANCASHIRE
Lancashire is on the brink of significant change, with 2025 set to be a pivotal year for our county. As the leader of Lancashire County Council, I am excited about the opportunities ahead and committed to driving our region towards a prosperous, inclusive, and innovative future.
The creation of the Lancashire Combined County Authority (CCA) is central to this transformation, enabling us to bring decision-making closer to home and ensuring local priorities are championed effectively. With £20m already secured for regeneration and innovation projects, the CCA is crucial for tackling historical underinvestment and unlocking new opportunities.
A cornerstone of our future success is our Local Growth Plan, developed in partnership with the Lancashire Business Board. It outlines our vision for sustainable growth, emphasising collaboration between the public and private sectors. As we prepare to consult on this, we are looking forward to feedback from businesses and stakeholders
whilst also driving regional economic growth through jobs, skills, and investment.
The National Cyber Force’s decision to call Lancashire home reinforces our growing reputation in technology and cybersecurity. This, coupled with our £39bn economy and strong partnerships, positions us as a hub for innovation, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable growth.
By Councillor Phillippa Williamson, Leader, Lancashire County Council
to ensure the plan meets the needs and ambition of our communities.
Recent announcements of proposed sites for two new hospitals – one to replace Royal Preston Hospital and another for Royal Lancaster Infirmary – represent a significant step forward in healthcare delivery in Lancashire. While timelines have not yet been finalised, these proposals leveraging cutting-edge facilities promise to transform quality, safety and patient experiences
lancashire.gov.uk
On 27 and 28 February, we will proudly host the Convention of the North, spotlighting our county as a leader in regional collaboration. This event is an opportunity to showcase Lancashire’s strengths and partnerships on a national stage, highlighting the vital role of public and private sector cooperation in driving shared prosperity. I encourage as many of you as possible to attend, representing and championing the voice of our county. For more details, visit
www.conventionofthenorth.org.uk.
With a bold vision and united effort, we are ensuring Lancashire is ready for the opportunities ahead and poised to lead.
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