County leaders launch framework for the future in Westminister celebration

Lancashire’s political leaders are gathering in the Palace of Westminster today (November 23) to celebrate Lancashire Day, and launch their shared ambition for the future of the county.

Representatives from county, unitary, district and borough councils are marking the publication of the Lancashire 2050 Framework, at a reception hosted by Chorley MP Sir Lindsay Hoyle in the State Rooms of the Speaker’s House.

The Lancashire 2050 Framework sets out a strategic plan for all of Lancashire’s councils to work more closely together and has been drawn up following months of work behind the scenes to create a shared vision, goals and priorities to help every resident live their best life.

All 15 council leaders who make up Lancashire have contributed to the plan, which will guide the future development of the county in eight key priority areas, which are:

• Economic prosperity
• Transport and infrastructure
• Environment and climate
• Housing
• Early years and education
• Employment and skills
• Health and wellbeing
• Communities and place

The plan sits above the work already undertaken on developing a County Deal for Lancashire, where political leaders have made the case to government for more powers and resources with a collective voice

Lancashire 2050 is a long term plan which is not dependent on local government reorganisation.

Cllr Phillippa Williamson, leader of Lancashire County Council and chair of Lancashire leader’s group, said: “This hugely important document will help shape the future of Lancashire for many years to come.

“It is incredibly fitting that we are able to announce its publication during a celebration of Lancashire Day, where dozens of businesses and organisations that represent the very best of our county are showcasing their work in the Palace of Westminster.”

She added: “While we know there is more work to do, this is a major step forward which shows how unified the county is and how focused we are on the needs and aspirations of our residents.

“These are exciting times, with Lancashire ready to take more control of its own destiny. The county’s future is bright but together we can make it brighter.”

Cllr Phil Riley, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “We need to unlock much needed resources to directly benefit our residents and ensure we prosper.

“Local authorities are expected to work together to be taken seriously and leverage greater influence with central government.

“It is vital that Lancashire’s 15 authorities follow down this path to avoid being left behind. This document is a first and important stage in that process. It also celebrates our uniqueness and real strengths.”

Cllr Lynn Williams, leader of Blackpool Council, said: “It is really important for us in Blackpool and for the county as a whole to be able to move forward with this plan for Lancashire.

“Despite our diverse geography and our differing communities the Lancashire 2050 Framework focuses on the things that are a priority for us all.

“The launch of this framework is the first step, and I very much look forward to working more closely with our colleagues across Lancashire on our shared common goals for the good of all of Lancashire’s residents.”

Cllr Alistair Bradley, leader of Chorley Council and chair of Lancashire District Leaders Group, said: “I’m really pleased to see this moving forward as we can achieve so much more for our residents by working together across the county.

“We’ve seen the benefits a collective voice can have in persuading the Government to release funding and powers to local people and it’s really important we take this opportunity to demonstrate our ambition while celebrating everything that is great about our county.”