Consultation for Lancashire Combined Authority's growth plan

Lancashire Combined County Authority has launched a six-week consultation on the county's Growth Plan at the Convention of the North.

It will show how the area will use its core grant from government to support projects which should be resourced now.

Crucially, the creation of the plan has the backing of the county's Business Board, an independent group of business experts from across Lancashire whose aim is to deliver a more prosperous Lancashire.

The document is one of the first Growth Plans to be consulted on in the country, showing how Lancashire understands the need to super-charge its growth both locally and nationally. 

Cllr Phillippa Williamson, leader of Lancashire County Council, said: "Lancashire is a place of scale and economic significance.  

"Our economy is worth £40billion, the second largest economy in the North West, with almost 55,000 companies and a population of 1.5 million population.

"We're showcasing just what Lancashire has on offer at the Convention of the North and underlining our importance as a key strategic player in the North as well as the UK."

Cllr Phil Riley, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, said: “Lancashire has a strong tradition of innovation, industry, and resilience. 

“By launching the consultation into our Growth Plan at the Convention of the North event, we’re demonstrating our commitment to driving forward economic prosperity across the county, with Blackburn with Darwen playing a key role in Lancashire’s future growth and success.

“With a new Growth Plan, Lancashire is serious and committed to lasting economic change. 

“By working with our business leaders, we will boost productivity, create prosperous places, and ensure residents and businesses benefit from new opportunities over the coming years.”

Cllr Lynn Williams, leader of Blackpool Council, said: “We are proud to be hosting the convention of the North here in Lancashire and It is perfect timing to be able to launch our Growth Plan for consultation.

“Lancashire’s economy is not to be underestimated. We are strong, skilled, innovative and resilient people and now is the time to harness those skills and the opportunity that faces us in Lancashire to catapult our growth even further.

“Blackpool alone contributes a significant amount to Lancashire’s overall economy. I am looking forward to speaking to business leaders and others about our future plans for growth and how they will benefit not only the communities here in Blackpool and across Lancashire but also the wider national economic picture.”

Mo Isap, chairman of Lancashire’s Business Board, said: “Lancashire has all the ingredients for economic success - an enterprising business community, strong partnerships, and ambitious plans for growth. 

“The consultation on the Growth Plan is a crucial step in setting the direction for our county’s future. 

“As business leaders, we are committed to ensuring this plan drives real change, attracts investment, and creates opportunities that will benefit businesses, communities, and residents across Lancashire.”

View The Lancashire Growth Plan

Comment on the plan by email to [email protected] 

Comments should be submitted by midnight on 11 April 2025.