The future is Lancashire
Now that it is spring, many people are looking to Europe, but on this occasion it is to book their summer holidays rather than the problems of the Euro zone. Life goes on, and even in these challenging times we must continue to plan for the future, both on a personal level and as businesses.
In the area in which we predominantly operate, the East Lancashire and North Manchester towns of Blackburn, Bolton and Burnley, it is heartening to see local business people pulling together at a local level to think positively and plan for a better future. These groups, including Blackburn Prosperous, Burnley Bondholders, Rossendale Business Leaders, Rossendale “Meet and Eat” and various other networking groups, are trying to stimulate business and the local economy by recognising the many strengths that we have in this area and focusing on those, whilst at the same time highlighting some of the local weaknesses in an effort to improve the local economy as a whole. The enthusiasm and commitment of the many people involved serves as a reminder that this area has many strengths and many successful individuals and local companies.
I was fortunate to be invited to the opening of Blackburn Youth Zone where HRH Prince Edward “threw the switch”. The efforts of Peter Little and his team to get this project off the ground, with the support of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, and their ability to gain the involvement of a number of local companies as patrons is truly inspirational. Whilst the completion of the building is only the start, with the continued support of local companies, volunteers and the Local Authority, the Youth Zone is sure to be a success for many years to come. It is stories like this that show what can be achieved when the people of the traditional Lancashire towns pull together and look to the future.
The recent Lancashire Business View Awards ceremony, held in Blackpool, also highlighted and celebrated some of the successful companies of the area. Again, it was heartening to see so many companies progressing by having a positive attitude and continuing to work hard against a tough economic climate.
Within the towns of the Lancashire area we have a tremendous history of working together to bring success. It is for this reason that I believe the future is Lancashire.
Peter Conroy
Trevor Dawson Chartered Surveyors
