Cyber schemes among projects getting £20m windfall

The first round of government funding will see millions spent on cyber projects in the region

Projects across Lancashire are set to benefit from a £20m funding boost as part of devolution plans for the county.

On Thursday, Lancashire County Council's cabinet agreed the body would receive the first round of government money while a new Combined County Authority (CCA) is set up.

Lancashire's Devolution Deal was signed in November last year and hopes to fund projects supporting economic regeneration, growth and net zero ambitions.

As part of the investment, £6m will be spent on building an "Innovation Hub" at the £5 billion future headquarters of the National Cyber Force, in Samlesbury.

Blackburn Town Centre's "innovation quarter" will also receive £6m to support the growth of the region's digital, creative, and cyber sectors by creating more space for businesses.

In Blackpool, there is £2m allocated to the Silicon Sands Low Carbon Data Centre in the Enterprise Zone, and £4m for new offices for the Department for Work and Pensions in the town centre.

Cosy Homes in Lancashire, a £41million energy efficiency home upgrade grant scheme for the whole county, will also get £2m.

The council will also look after any further funding, ahead of the establishing of the CCA next year, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Cllr Phil Riley, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “The initially agreed projects will start us on the journey of a new way of working with government for the benefit of the whole of Lancashire once the County Combined Authority is formally established.

“We are looking forward to seeing a new digital and creative business hub be created as a direct result of the devolution deal funding.

LCC leader Cllr Phillippa Williamson said: “These schemes are a great illustration of the type of projects we want to support.

“The Innovation Hub located at Samlesbury Enterprise Zone, will be a new, exciting, space that allows Lancashire businesses, residents and key sectors to engage with National Cyber Force.

“This will open up new jobs, technologies and opportunities.”