Burnley is a blueprint

Burnley has been hailed as “a blueprint for other boroughs to follow” by a leading Lancashire business figure.

He told the audience of around 60 business leaders: “Burnley has got an attitude to just get things done. It’s the attitude not only of the council but the people of Burnley.”

He said: “It is about the future. UCLan and Burnley College are preparing the workforce for the future; Burnley has to prepare the workplace for the future.”

A Question Time-style discussion was chaired by Richard Slater, publisher of Lancashire Business View.

Kate highlighted regeneration and job creating projects across Burnley including a £4m investment in the public realm in the town centre.

Kate also highlighted the digital success story emerging in Burnley, pointing out recent statistics revealing a 162 per cent increase in jobs in the local digital economy. And she added: “People are coming to Burnley because there is a lifestyle offer here that is attractive for small businesses and a good business environment.”

• More coverage of this event will be featured in the next issue of Lancashire Business View along with an in-depth look at Burnley’s emerging digital sector.