A NATIONAL skills academy for rail could be set up in the North West – thanks to an initiative by Cheshire and Warrington Economic Alliance.
The move is being backed by the Warrington-based North West Development Agency and by local pop promoter and railway enthusiast Pete Waterman.
An expression of interest in developing the skills academy, based in historic railway centre Crewe, is to be submitted to the Government by the CWEA
Major employers in the sector have already demonstrated a strong commitment to lead and fully support the establishment of the academy, which would meet the specialist skills needs of the sector at a crucial stage in its development.
Pete Waterman, who lives near Warrington, owns several railway businesses including Crewe-based LNWR.Steven Broomhead, chief executive of the NWDA, said: “The NWDA is pleased to endorse a scheme which supports the rail industry in Crewe, an important part of Crewe’s heritage which also makes a significant contribution to the local and regional economies. It is vital that rail continues to thrive in the North West and basing a Skills Academy for Rail here would be a tremendous boost to ensuring the region remains at the forefront of this industry. Improving the region’s skills base is a priority for the NWDA in our aim to secure economic growth for the North West – we have a wealth of talent in the region and it is vital that we provide the opportunities for people to fulfill their potential.” The initiative is also supported by Network Rail, Virgin Trains, University of Chester and Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) Cheshire.
A NATIONAL skills academy for rail could be set up - thanks to an initiative by Cheshire and Warrington Economic Alliance.
Bid for rail skills academy
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Gary Skentelbery
Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.
