Investment in Burnley creates 16 new jobs and increases productivity

In the second week of Recess I was again able to spend time in Burnley. I enjoy the extra time Recess gives me to meet constituents and help resolve their issues.

I had an early start on Monday, when I met the council’s anti-social behaviour unit and police to discuss problems experienced by some residents in the Holcombe Drive area. I am keen to help resolve this matter swiftly, so those concerned feel safe and happy in Burnley. Lib-Dem minister Jo Swinson and I visited Lupton & Place Ltd to see their £1.3m. investment in a new die casting machine. The decision to buy this machine with BCW was following the Government’s increase in capital allowance relief to £250,000. The purchase has facilitated the production of a major part for a significant car manufacturer, which was originally going to be made in China but can now be made in Burnley. I was delighted to see this investment creating 16 jobs and increasing productivity in our town.

I visited the Nissan plant in Sunderland. It is the biggest UK car plant and I saw the manufacturing of the Qashqai 4, Nissan Juke and Nissan Leaf, an electric car. I was able to drive the electric car which was great fun! It was incredible to learn of the fantastic success the plant had in 2012, with 550,000 cars manufactured, of which 90% are exported. This earns the UK economy £5 billion and demonstrates the major part Nissan plays in the manufacturing industry.

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I met the local hospice at Ladbrokes to collect their £150 winnings. I would like to thank Ladbrokes for their generosity of the £50 free bet.

I had a meeting with Lancashire County Council and BAE Systems regarding the final proposal for the Aerospace Skills City Facility. This would deliver new training to equip 700 young people with craft and high-tech manufacturing skills. The proposal requests £24m.of Government help, which would be money well spent to train young people for the jobs of the future.

I then had discussions with the CEO of AMS Ltd regarding his bid to the Regional Growth Fund for money to build a “Mini 02 Arena” adjacent to the Weavers’ Triangle. The meeting went well and it is a very exciting bid for regeneration and jobs. Regrettably, this is the only bid from Burnley for this money, following the council’s decision not to put in a capital bid this year despite having had major successes in the past.

Friday was filled with constituent appointments and Saturday’s advice stall outside M&S was busy as normal and accompanied by the usual rain! If there is anything I can help you with, do get in touch.

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