New forum for manufacturing launched

THE North West’s £19bn manufacturing sector is to be supported by a new forum launched by the North West Development Agency.

Members of the forum will act as ambassadors for the key sector, and will help steer the region’s manufacturing strategy and influence public sector actions.

The body will be led by Duncan Craig, who is currently vice president of manufacturing processes for nuclear firm Westinghouse.

NWDA chief executive, Steven Broomhead said: “The North West’s manufacturing sector is the biggest of any English region and remains a major driver for improving GVA, contributing almost £20bn to the regional economy.

“The NWDA will work with the forum and partners across the North West to create a modern manufacturing sector in the region that will be innovative, enterprising, highly skilled, and well-led.”

Duncan Craig, who started his career with BNFL in 1978, and who is now responsible for driving manufacturing improvement across the Westinghouse Nuclear business added: “Having spent 32 years in manufacturing I am passionate about the sector, it is in my blood, and I am delighted to have the opportunity to help develop the sector in the North West.”