Downtown in Business was delighted to host a high-profile roundtable discussion at the Holiday Inn Preston on 25 June 2026, bringing together business leaders and key political figures to discuss the future of devolution and what it could mean for Lancashire.
The event featured Dan Price and Ben Fletcher, two of the candidates seeking to become the first elected Mayor of Cheshire and Warrington, who shared their views on the opportunities that devolved powers can create for local economies, communities and businesses.
With devolution continuing to reshape regional governance across England, the discussion focused on the tangible benefits that mayoral combined authorities have delivered elsewhere. From attracting investment and improving transport infrastructure to enhancing skills provision and strengthening relationships with government, participants explored how devolved decision-making has enabled regions to take greater control of their own futures.
A central theme throughout the roundtable was whether Lancashire risks being left behind if it does not secure a more ambitious devolution settlement. Business leaders highlighted the success stories seen in areas such as Greater Manchester, the West Midlands and the Liverpool City Region, where elected mayors have played a pivotal role in championing their regions and driving economic growth.
Both candidates stressed the importance of strong local leadership and discussed how devolved powers can help address local priorities more effectively than a one-size-fits-all approach from Westminster. The conversation also examined the role mayors can play in bringing together businesses, local authorities and public sector partners to deliver long-term economic success.
Attendees were given the opportunity to question the candidates on a range of issues including investment, infrastructure, skills, housing and economic development, while also exploring what lessons Lancashire can learn from areas that have already embraced devolution.
The event formed part of Downtown in Business’ ongoing commitment to facilitating meaningful dialogue between the business community and political leaders on the issues that matter most to the region’s future prosperity.
