Aerospace sector to get extra funds to help firms

Lancashire is a key centre of aerospace production, with firms such as BAE Systems recruiting in the county

A million-pound scheme to support the aerospace and engineering industry in Lancashire has received an extra £300,000 from the county council.

The first phase of the so-called Watchtower project was launched in 2022 and funded by Lancashire County Council to help the sector's supplier firms after the coronavirus pandemic.

It was set up by the North West Aerospace Alliance (NWAA), which represents about 150 companies involved in the region's aerospace industry.

Councillor Aidy Riggott, cabinet member for economic development, said the project had "already delivered significant benefits to our local aerospace and advanced engineering sectors".

Global competition

He added the new year-long project Watchtower 2 would be "crucial in helping businesses meet the challenges of tomorrow – whether through embracing new technologies, enhancing cybersecurity, or driving sustainability".

The UK has one of the world's largest aerospace industries, with Lancashire considered to be its key production centre, employing about 14,000 people.

However the country's multi-billion pound sector also faces global competition for opportunities and experts have called for investment in knowledge and skills, particularly among efforts to fulfil net-zero targets for greenhouse gas emission.

Paul Bell, programme manager at NWAA, said the first Watchtower project in Lancashire "provided businesses with clear roadmaps for growth and development".

"We are excited to build on that success with Watchtower 2, helping businesses thrive in the new era of technology and sustainability."