£300k funding boost for high-flying Watchtower project
A pioneering £1million initiative to support the aerospace and advanced engineering industry in Lancashire has received further funding to enable it to soar to new heights.
The Lancashire Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing (AEM) Watchtower project launched in 2022 by the North West Aerospace Alliance (NWAA) to support strategically important aerospace suppliers following the Covid-19 pandemic.
Its ambitious follow-up programme, Watchtower Lancashire, aims to further propel Lancashire’s aerospace and advanced manufacturing sector into the future.
With an additional investment of £300,000 from Lancashire County Council, Watchtower Lancashire is designed to ensure that businesses remain at the forefront of global innovation.
Cllr Aidy Riggott, cabinet member for Economic Development and Growth, said:
“Lancashire County Council is proud to support the continuation of the Watchtower programme, which has already delivered significant benefits to our local aerospace and advanced engineering sectors.
“Watchtower Lancashire will be crucial in helping businesses meet the challenges of tomorrow – whether through embracing new technologies, enhancing cybersecurity, or driving sustainability.
“This programme is an investment in the future of Lancashire’s economy, and we look forward to seeing our AEM sector continue to flourish.”
The original Watchtower programme, £1 million initiative funded by Lancashire County Council, provided invaluable support to Lancashire’s aerospace and advanced engineering industry, offering diagnostics, talent retention, innovation support, and growth opportunities.
With cutting-edge technologies, cybersecurity, and sustainability at its core, Watchtower Lancashire builds on this foundation, ensuring that Lancashire’s AEM businesses are equipped to thrive in an era of rapid technological change and increasing sustainability demands.
Prof Andrew Schofield, Chair of Northwest Aerospace Alliance said “This is a fantastic opportunity to build on the foundations from the initial two years of the Watchtower programme. SMEs will have the opportunity to develop their capability and contribute to making Lancashire the most attractive location in the UK by generating high value employment and delivering sustainable growth”.
Paula Gill, CEO of North West Aerospace Alliance said “We are immensely proud of our advanced engineering and manufacturing capabilities in Lancashire. The aerospace and defence industry thrives thanks to the support of local businesses. With the continued funding of the Watchtower programme, we can build on our initial successes. We are excited to integrate the new pillars of Digital Transformation, Sustainability, Diversification, and Innovation, which will further enhance collaboration and cross-sector opportunities.”
David Bailey, CEO of Aerospace Consulting, added “I am delighted that Lancashire County Council has backed the continuation of the hugely successful Watchtower Programme.
Watchtower was developed to look out for the future of Lancashire’s Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing Sector and has been enhanced to drive a new era of ‘Collaboration and Growth’ through new services and support for industry.”
Paul Bell, Programme Manager at NWAA, said “The original programme provided businesses with clear roadmaps for growth and development. We are excited to build on that success with Watchtower Lancashire, helping businesses thrive in the new era of technology and sustainability.”
Join the Watchtower Lancashire Programme
Businesses in Lancashire’s AEM sector are encouraged to participate in Watchtower Lancashire, a 12-month programme designed to equip them with the tools, insights, and networks needed for sustained growth and success. By embracing innovation, digitalization, and sustainability, participants will be well-positioned to lead in the future of UK manufacturing.
For more information about the Watchtower Lancashire programme or to register your business, please contact E: paul.bell@aerospace.co.uk or go to https://www.aerospace.co.uk/programmes/watchtower-2/ to register your interest.
