MPs and business leaders gather for devolution conference at manor hotel

Business leaders from across East Lancashire joined local MPs, council representatives and banking experts for a major conference exploring the future of devolution, local government reorganisation and economic growth in the region.

The Devolution in Practice conference, organised by Amazing Accrington and Sarah Smith, the Member of Parliament for Hyndburn & Haslingden, took place on Thursday 29 October at the Mercure Dunkenhalgh Hotel, bringing together representatives from across East Lancashire's business and public sectors.

The event provided an opportunity for business leaders to hear directly from political representatives about the implications of devolution and local government reorganisation, while sharing their own views on the opportunities and challenges facing the region.

Murray Dawson, Chair of Amazing Accrington and Managing Director of Scott Dawson Advertising, welcomed delegates before Sarah Smith MP introduced the purpose and aims of devolution and local government reorganisation.

NatWest supported the event and attended to showcase its commitment to supporting businesses and economic growth across the region. The bank also provided a briefing on the key announcements from the Autumn Budget, followed by further questions and discussion chaired by Murray Dawson.

A key part of the conference was a panel discussion chaired by Miranda Barker OBE, Chair of RedCAT Group, featuring Sarah Smith MP, Andy MacNae MP, Carl Hankinson North West Director, NatWest, and Rob Huntingdon, Chief Executive of Rossendale Council.

The panel explored the potential implications of devolution and local government reorganisation for East Lancashire, with business leaders given the opportunity to put questions directly to the speakers.

Murray Dawson said: "It was fantastic to bring together such a strong cross-section of business leaders, MPs and local government representatives from across East Lancashire. I have to thank Burnley Bondholders, Pendle Vision Board and the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce for inviting their members to attend.

"Devolution and local government reorganisation will have significant implications for our region, and it's important that the business community is part of the conversation.

"East Lancashire has an incredibly strong and diverse business community, and events like this provide a valuable opportunity to discuss our shared priorities, strengthen relationships and make sure our region's voice is heard. Ultimately, we all want to see East Lancashire thrive, attract investment and create opportunities for businesses and future generations."

Sarah Smith MP said: "The Government’s budget this week included the commitment to a Mayor for Lancashire which is a crucial step forward in our Devolution journey. Businesses are clear that they want to see this move as quickly as possible and it is incumbent on politicians of all political parties to support this. Our future is in our hands, and it is for the Leaders across Lancashire to work together to shape our future."

Andy MacNae MP commented: “I was delighted to speak and contribute to this important event. I found the discussions very useful, and it provided a good opportunity to meet and speak directly with so many of our excellent local employers. Congratulations to Sarah, Amazing Accrington and NatWest for organising such a great event.”

Joanne Danaher, Director of Neighbourhoods at Onward Homes, said: “It was a fantastic event, and great to see so many people coming together. Collaboration and compromise are key to moving forward. As a housing provider, we also need to balance investment in new homes with improving existing properties, ensuring the wellbeing of our customers remains a priority.”

Clive Grunshaw, Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner, added: “It’s been a fantastic event, with a great turnout and real enthusiasm for devolution across Lancashire. There’s a clear appetite among businesses to understand the opportunities it could bring, particularly around investment, jobs and economic growth. It’s been valuable to hear their views and discuss how we can move forward to secure the best possible future for Lancashire.”