Town is ready for growth challenge

NEW research into how England’s towns and cities are placed for the “growth challenge” has shown that Warrington is one to watch.
For quality of life it came second, just behind York and the town also has the sixth highest number of “knowledge workers” – people employed in higher end roles demanding managerial, professional and technical skills.
The analysis has been published by The Municipal Journal (MJ) and The Local Futures Group and brings together composite measures for each of the 325 local authority areas in England.
Economic performance, human resources, environment and infrastructure were all examined over a number of months and the findings strongly indicate that Warrington will continue to prosper in the future as it is an extremely attractive investment location.
Warrington has a highly developed infrastructure and a diverse business community of energy, engineering, telecoms and distribution amongst others.
It is home to around 8,000 businesses employing 115,000 people and 17 of the largest locally controlled businesses have their headquarters in the borough.
Some of the key strengths picked out by researchers include Warrington’s high quality of life.
It came second, just behind York, based on crime measures, health indicators, access to education and the surrounding natural environment.
Former chief executive of the North West Development Agency and current interim chief executive of Warrington Borough Council, Professor Steven Broomhead (pictured)said of the study: “Our strategic location and excellent transport infrastructure are the foundation of Warrington’s success, but the skilled workforce that live here and the knowledge they possess is what will really drive us forward in the future.”
Cllr Terry O’Neill, leader of the borough council said: “This council has ambitious regeneration plans and several major schemes in the borough are due to break ground in 2013.
“We are wholly committed to encouraging employment opportunities for local people whilst promoting prosperity and to that end we are continuing to work hard to align future employment growth areas with the provision of local education and skills providers through the work of the Warrington Skills Commission.”
Last year the council launched the “Warrington Means Business” programme as the driver for future economic growth.
It also looks to strengthen cultural resources, develop skills and encourage local enterprise. It sets out an overarching masterplan that will change the face of the borough over the next two decades, bringing together plans for Omega, Bridge Street, the Southern Gateway, the Stadium Quarter, Bank Quay Gateway and the Atlantic Gateway.