Cuerden is going to happen

The aim of the £36m Cuerden strategic site plan is to create around 4,500 new jobs in a variety of sectors including office, retail, manufacturing, logistics, catering and hospitality.

Speaking at the launch of the latest edition of Lancashire Business View, Heather McManus said that despite that setback there was keen interest in the site. “Cuerden will be developed,” she said.

The gathering at the Hallmark Hotel in Leyland also heard from Melissa Conlon, commercial director of the planned new Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) on the enterprise zone in Samlesbury – described as a “game changer” for the county.

Paul Hegarty from Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust spoke about the collaborative approach being taken in central Lancashire around the City Deal and wellbeing issues.

The launch event, which was sponsored by South Ribble Council, also heard from Philip McIvor, founder of Farmhouse Biscuits.

And he gave some advice to today’s would-be entrepreneurs, saying: “If you have got an idea for it, don’t give up.

A full interview with Philip McIvor and an in-depth look at Cuerden and the economy of South Ribble feature in the latest issue of Lancashire Business View, which is out now.