Warrington to prosper in 2015

AN upbeat assessment of Warrington’s prospects in 2015 comes from Steve Park, managing director of economic development and regeneration group Warrington and Co.
While there are signs that the economy may have “bolted too early” and is now starting to slow, he remains confident of continued prosperity for Warrington businesses during the year.
Writing in the Warrington and Co monthly newsletter he says: “Twelve months ago the economic landscape was still barren.
“However, 2014 did see green shoots and more importantly, I feel, a return of business optimism.
Mr Park (pictured) says 2014 was a very positive year for Warrington’s economy.
A wealth of positive independent statistics showed the local economy as buoyant and bucking the national trend. It was very encouraging too, to see local SME’s performing well.
Warrington’s SME’s were ranked number one in the UK for high growth.
“If further proof was needed, last month saw a very strong Warrington presence in the 2014 table of the best performing SME’s in the North West.
“Network infrastructure specialists, WHP Projects, based at St James’ Court and brewing and packaging suppliers, Thomas Hardy from Burtonwood were ranked in the top 20 and Hiden Instruments, who manufacture high precision scientific instruments was ranked 5th for most overseas sales.”
Warrington Borough Council’s growth plans had made good progress, with the Business Incubaor in the Stadium Quarter likely to be open in six months
Omega continued to attract occupiers and work was likely to start on site on the Bridge Street Quarter early in the New Year.
Masterplanning was also well underway for Cabinet Works, Southern Gateway and Warrington Waters and the year would see these projects advance significantly.
Mr Park went on: “The Warrington Skills Forum is up and running. This is an innovative and pioneering model that brings employers, schools and colleges together to discuss the skills needed to support local business and grow the local economy.
“Importantly it then looks to address and prepare to avoid skills shortfalls. In train with Warrington’s key sector strengths it has a particular focus on engineering, logistics and the health sectors and I expect that the Forum will play a growing role as the year progresses.
“Twelve months ago the economic landscape was still barren, however, 2014 did see green shoots and more importantly, I feel, a return of business optimism.
“Whilst there are signs that the economy may have bolted too early and is now starting to slow, I’m confident of continued prosperity in 2015 for Warrington businesses.