Watchtower 2 looks to shape AEM sector’s future

A pioneering programme supporting development and growth in aerospace and advanced engineering across Lancashire has entered a new phase.

The aim of the newly unveiled Watchtower 2 is to build on the success of the original £1m business support programme.

It was officially launched by the North West Aerospace Alliance (NWAA), Lancashire County Council and engineering leaders this week.

The advanced programme will look to drive innovation, cybersecurity, and sustainability in 2024/25.

It follows the resounding success of the initial Lancashire Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing (AEM) Watchtower programme, which was also funded by County Hall.

Born out of the Covid-19 pandemic and the huge damage it inflicted, the original Watchtower included big hitters such as BAE Systems, Safran Nacelles and Rolls Royce.

The funding for Watchtower was part of the county council’s £12.8m Lancashire Economic Recovery and Growth Fund – specifically targeting some of the economic impacts of Covid-19.

Now the ambitious follow-up programme, with an additional investment of £300,000 aims to further propel Lancashire’s AEM sector into the future.

A statement announcing its launch said: “With cutting-edge technologies, cybersecurity, and sustainability at its core, Watchtower 2 is designed to ensure that Lancashire’s aerospace and advanced manufacturing businesses remain at the forefront of global innovation.”

Paul Bell, programme manager at NWAA, added: “The original programme provided businesses with clear roadmaps for growth and development.

“We are excited to build on that success with Watchtower 2, helping businesses thrive in the new era of technology and sustainability.”

He added: “Lancashire is a hotbed for aerospace and advanced manufacturing, and Watchtower 2 will ensure our businesses are ready for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

“Thanks to the continued support from Lancashire County Council, we are proud to deliver a programme that will shape the future of our region’s AEM sector.”

Aidy Riggott, the county council’s cabinet member for economic development and growth, said: “Lancashire County Council is proud to support the continuation of the Watchtower programme, which has already delivered significant benefits to our local aerospace and advanced engineering sectors.

“Watchtower 2 will be crucial in helping businesses meet the challenges of tomorrow - whether through embracing new technologies, enhancing cybersecurity, or driving sustainability.

“This programme is an investment in the future of Lancashire’s economy, and we look forward to seeing our AEM sector continue to flourish.”

David Bailey, chief executive of Aerospace Consulting, explained that the programme has been enhanced “to drive a new era of collaboration and growth through new services and support for industry.”

The programme will focus on ‘creating future-ready capabilities, ensuring cybersecurity resilience, and achieving sustainability goals.’

Those behind the latest drive say that Watchtower 2 will work to ensure Lancashire’s AEM sector remains future proof by equipping businesses with the skills and knowledge necessary to embrace new technologies and sustainable practices.

The programme will also help companies build a cyber-secure infrastructure, seen as a critical requirement in today’s increasingly digitised and interconnected industries.

Watchtower 2 will bring together SMEs, major AEM players, sector clusters, catapults, and universities to foster “collective innovation”.

Paul Bell added: “As we move forward, it’s not just about surviving in the industry, but thriving with sustainability and innovation at the core of our businesses. Watchtower 2 is perfectly positioned to guide our companies into this future.”

For more information about the Watchtower 2 programme or to register your business, contact: [email protected] or go to https://www.aerospace.co.uk/programmes/watchtower-2/