Liverpool City Region Metro Mayor outlines plans for Halton

At the Halton Chamber’s 1stuesday event on October 1, Mr Rotheram addressed more than 75 attendees, including business leaders, and outlined the benefits of Halton being part of the Liverpool City Region.

He said that projects are already under way in the borough as a direct result of being part of a devolved authority.

The Metro Mayor revealed that there have been engagements with Downing Street, with an aim to put Halton at the forefront of delivering the Government Agenda.

This could unlock significant opportunities for Halton on both national and regional levels.

Mr Rotheram expressed that 'there are many accents, but through the LCR, we can speak as one'.

As part of a combined authority, Halton will benefit from a 10-year plan to develop high-tech facilities to support growth and promote innovation.

This falls under the 'Innovation Zones' initiative.

The LCR has secured funding of up to £800 million.

Halton’s freeport and Investment Zones will be developed as part of this initiative, and the region expects to create an additional 8,000 jobs.

Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, presenting to delegates at 1stuesday Business Breakfast Networking (Image: Supplied) Mr Rotheram said that Halton is a key location for job and development opportunities in places such as 3MG and Viking Park.

Working closely with Mike Wharton, the leader of Halton Council, Mr Rotheram outlined initiatives to drive growth through innovation in Halton.

The LCR has received significant funding to address climate change by focusing on innovation, retrofitting, and skill development through partnerships with institutions like Halton’s Riverside College.

Mr Rotheram also announced plans for a new train station in Daresbury.

The LCR has invested in battery technology for use in trains to create the UK’s first battery-powered fleet.

By switching to battery power, a live third rail would no longer be required, opening possibilities for further development of the network into new places that can bring in new business.

He concluded by stating that "The Liverpool City Region is the innovation capital."

Rachael Owen, Chief Executive Officer of Halton Chamber of Commerce, thanked Mr Rotheram for sharing the ambitious plans laid out for Halton and the Combined Authorities.

She said: "It’s so important for our local businesses and residents to meet and hear from local leaders.

"It was great to see so many businesses joining us to stay informed on how regional decisions are impacting locally here in Halton and to have the opportunity to ask the questions they want answers to."

The event was well received, with a diverse range of businesses joining together to learn about the LCR and initiatives during a question and answers session.

The mayor took questions from delegates including Keith Tomlinson, Director of PPK Training & Assessment Ltd (Image: Supplied) Attendees praised Mr Rotheram's presentation, describing it as "inspiring" and "fascinating to listen to."

Some attendees also appreciated the "opportunity to raise issues" and said they "really enjoyed it and made new connections."

Halton Chamber aims to connect and support businesses and encourages everyone to attend 1stuesday events to stay informed about local initiatives and future plans.

The next 1stuesday event will welcome Stephen Young, the Chief Executive of Halton Borough Council, and will take place on November 5 at the DCBL Stadium.