News this week from Think Tank, Centre For Cities, that showed Preston had performed well economically during the recession, was tempered somewhat by the announcement that the Public inquiry into the proposed Titehbarn regeneration project is to be delayed until July.
It is our old friend, the bus station, and its uncertain future that has led to this unfortunate set back to a development that has experienced more delays than British Rail!
A decision about whether the eyesore of a bus station is listed (it would be funny if it wasn’t so serious) will not be made in time for the initial inquiry start time of May. I have made my thoughts on the station known many times before, and one can only hope that Margaret Hodge, the Minister who will ultimately decide the fate of the archaic structure, sees sense and not only denies listed status, but orders its demolition at the earliest opportunity.
Tithebarn aside, which we are all getting a little fed up with, the Centre for Cities study made interesting and encouraging reading. Preston is identified as ‘one to watch’, with figures relating to business start up’s and unemployment statistics particularly impressive. And the private sector’s contribution in the decade 1998-2008 has been crucial with almost 17,000 jobs created by preston businesses.
Further optimism for the city came from the announcement by North West Development Agency Chief Executive Steve Broomhead, who confirmed that his organisation was looking to invest £100million to kick start Preston’s office quarter. Commercial space in the city is certainly in need of a facelift, and if we can develop a modern commercial centre, whilst upgrading existing business areas such as Winckley Square, Preston can be optimistic about its future.