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Senior politicians and business leaders will be flooding into Preston for two days this week.
Convention of the North is one of the major political events shaping the future of the North of England and is expected to bring more than 800 people from the world of politics to the city.
Being held across County Hall and the University of Central Lancashire during Thursday (27 February) and Friday (28 February) it is being hosted by Preston-born and raised TV presenter and political editor Ranvir Singh.
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A senior government minister is due to give a speech at the conference and attend it – although organisers are not saying which minister it will be at this stage.
All the North’s Metro Mayors are due to be in attendance and the conference comes against a backdrop of an increasingly fractious debate about Devolution for Lancashire – which at this stage does not have an elected Mayor included in its Devolution settlement.
Senior business leaders attending include Greg Jackson CBE, founder and chief exec of Octopus Energy, Katie Gallagher OBE chair of the UK Tech Cluster Group, Jude Kelly CBE chair of UK One Creative North and Craig Bootby managing director of Springfields Fuels Ltd.
Co-chair of Convention of the North, Clare Hayward MBE, said: “The participation of such influential speakers at the Convention of the North brings real gravitas to this critical event. We must present a clear, coordinated agenda to the new government to ensure our region’s priorities are heard as well as acted upon. The Convention provides a vital platform for leaders across the North to drive the change we need and secure the future we all deserve.
“We will be hearing from a range of distinguished speakers, from business leaders to elected representatives, all committed to championing the North’s economic growth, infrastructure development, and long-term prosperity. Attendees can expect lively discussions on the key issues that matter most to our region, including transport, skills, housing, and innovation, with a focus on building a more sustainable and inclusive economy.
“This is a chance for the North to demonstrate its collective strength and vision as we work together to shape the future of our communities. I’m particularly looking forward to hearing from leading national businesses and seeing how we can all work together to drive forward our shared goals for the North.”
Leader of Lancashire County Council, county councillor Phillippa Williamson, said: “It’s a great honour to host this year’s convention in Preston, Lancashire. It will provide an invaluable opportunity to unite and celebrate the power and potential of Northern collaboration.
“Lancashire has a proud history, from its key role in the Industrial Revolution to its ongoing contributions to the North’s economy and culture. Our legacy of innovation and community spirit continues to shape the future of the county, and we’re excited to take the lead in showcasing this to our other Northern partners.
“As we gather at the University of Central Lancashire, it’s essential that we learn from one another. By exchanging ideas and experiences, we empower each other to create a brighter future for our communities and region.”
The full programme and more details can be found at the Convention of the North website. The event is by registration only for attendance.
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