Green shoots prediction for town's economy

AN upbeat view of Warrington’s economic prospects in the coming year has come from regeneration partnership Warrington & Co.
Writing in the partnership’s newsletter, managing director Steve Park predicts a year when “green shoots” will continue to grow – and nowhere more so than in Warrington.
He says: “There is a lot of activity going on behind the scenes to make the regeneration ambitions a reality and I’m excited about the opportunities that 2014 brings.”
Mr Park recalls how last year started in the grip of economic recession with little sign of relief from the pressure this brings for businesses in Warrington.
But as the year progressed, confidence in the economy showed signs of gradual improvement, both nationally and locally.
Warrington recorded the highest number of business start-ups outside of London.
The borough council launched its “Warrington Means Business” growth framework, setting out the economic and regenerations ambitions of the town.
He said: “Set against this framework Warrington & Co. has worked alongside the council throughout the year to progress the planning for the exciting Bridge Street improvements, the plans for the Stadium Quarter opposite Central Station, Cabinet Works and of course the developments at Omega.
In reflecting on the Omega progress it’s hard to believe that back in January last year this was just desolate development site!
“Making sure that the local economy benefits from this investment activity is a priority at Warrington & Co., and with events like ‘Meet The Buyer’ and the recent ‘Small Business Saturday’ we’ve certainly seen local businesses able to take advantage of the opportunities.
“All the economic indicators suggest that the trend of improvement in business confidence, and dare I say it ‘green shoots’, are set to continue throughout 2014.
“Nowhere will see this more than Warrington, as further announcements are made throughout out the year regarding the ambitious regeneration projects. Hopefully this will include a start on the Stadium Quarter with a new office building for small businesses.”