Economic turnaround of Barrow-in-Furness recognised with award

FURNESS Enterprise has been named as the North West winner of Enterprising Britain 2008.

The Barrow-in-Furness-based organisation was created to help encourage business start-up rates, reduce unemployment and stem the exodus of young people frustrated at the lack of opportunities.

John Barker, who has been the lead on the project since its inception, said: “Living and working in Barrow, I have seen our economy change and the challenges this has brought.

“Barrow had to take its future in its own hands and create conditions that make people want to stay here and encourage others to move in.”

He added: “We have worked hard to influence local culture and minds and introduce the benefits of enterprise to all. There is still some way to go but we believe we have made an excellent start.”

Following a decline in engineering and manufacturing, three of the Cumbrian town’s ward were ranked as the most deprived in the UK. It also had the third highest concentration of incapacity benefit claims in the UK.

Furness Enterprise encouraged leaders from both the private and public sector to work together to encourage entrepreneurship in the region.

Four factors were identified and addressed including providing continuity of support, developing networks, celebrating success and engaging young people.

As a result there has been an increase in the number of business start-ups, with 558 new firms being founded creating around 800 jobs since 2003.

Sectors showing promise include advanced engineering and shipbuilding.

Links have also been forged with Lancaster University and there are plans to broker links with the new University of Cumbria.

Barrow is famed for its naval heritage, particularly the production of submarines, and is still home to global defence manufacturer BAE Systems.