Public and private sector leaders to debate devolution at event

Experts from the public and private sectors will discuss Lancashire’s devolution journey and what it means for growth and regeneration in the county at the next Brabners Building Links construction and property event on April 24 in Preston.

Attendees will hear from speakers about the opportunities devolution can bring to Lancashire, its impact on the region’s property and construction market as well as the importance of collaboration and partnerships between the public and private sectors.

Simon Lawrence, director of growth and regeneration at Lancashire County Council, will provide an overview of Lancashire’s devolution plans and their effect on the county’s vision for future development and growth.

He will be joined by Brabners’ CEO Robert White, who will discuss how initiatives such as True North, the collaborative network for purpose-led businesses, can help support regeneration and growth in the region.

Rob Huntington, chief executive at Rossendale Borough Council will also give his view on the opportunities and challenges for the region, focusing on the developments planned across Rossendale, while Nicola Rigby, principal of land development at Avison Young, will share her views on what devolution means for strategic regeneration, delivery and funding.  

The speakers will also join a panel discussion chaired by Jennie Jones, a partner in Brabners’ Construction team, offering attendees the opportunity to ask questions.

Jennie Jones said: “We launched Building Links last year in response to demand from our property and construction industry clients and partners for a quarterly group where they can meet other senior decision makers while learning about key topical industry issues.

“Lancashire’s devolution deal will see it gain new powers in a range of economic areas including development and regeneration, and the new Lancashire Combined County Authority will receive £20m capital funding to invest in local priorities.

“This evolving political and funding landscape is likely to bring significant changes to the region’s construction industry so we’re excited to gather some of the sector’s key decision makers to hear about the opportunities and potential challenges devolution will bring with a brilliant line-up of speakers.”

Building Links will take place between 8am – 10am on April 24 at Brabners’ Lancashire office. To register your interest contact the Brabners’ Events team at: [email protected].