I was delighted see nearly 800 people have their say over the weekend on the first concept designs for the regeneration of Barrow town centre.
I spoke at Saturday’s consultation event about how important it is that residents are put in the driving seat when it comes to shaping the plans.
I also spoke about the understandable scepticism that many people still have, following many years of failed promises and disappointment that have got us here.
I started most of my early career on Dalton Road back in the 1980s, and I’ve seen the gradual decline of our town centre over the years, and the missed opportunities to put things right.
But that is why I’m so optimistic that this time it will be different.
We’ve never had this type of backing in my lifetime, with a dedicated partnership bringing together BAE Systems, local and national government, £220m of Government investment and the full weight of the civil service supporting us.
The detail still needs to be developed with residents fully involved, but this is a credible plan, with all the structures and support needed for success in place.
This is our chance, and we’ve got to grasp it.
I urge people to get involved, keep working to shape the plans, and to help create something special which will provide a springboard for our town’s success for the next 100 years.
