Hello and welcome to the latest edition of Thank Frank Its Friday. Another week, another threat to Tithebarn – at least that’s how it sometimes appears. We take a look at the news that campaigners are calling for a review of the Culture Secretary’s decision to deny the city’s bus station listed status. As usual, we also nominate a successful Man of the Week, and highlight DPIB members news. Read on, enjoy, have a great weekend, and don’t do anything Frank wouldn’t do…

Despite last weeks good news that Preston’s bus station would not be listed, we now hear there could be another threat as campaigners called for a review of the decision.

The Twentieth Century Society, which called for the building to be Grade II listed, has announced it would call for a formal review into the Culture Secretary’s decision.

The next step for the delayed Tithebarn scheme is a public inquiry, due to take place in the summer, to decide if Lend Lease, the developer of the £700m scheme, can move forward with its plans. Demolition of the bus station is key to the project.

DPIB chairman Frank McKenna said: “That despite logic and common sense prevailing with the Culture Secretary’s decision, finally giving the city a chance to move forward, there could be a further threat to the already delayed Tithebarn scheme is unbelievable.

“It is time for business leaders and campaigners alike to look to the future, and prepare for Preston taking its true place as a city worth shouting about.”

The future of the North West Regional Development Agency has been the subject of much debate as we approach the General Election, with likely winners the Conservative Party proposing the abolition of the strategic economic development organisation.

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GB Energy, a UK leader in energy-efficient products and services, has launched a red-hot deal on its energy assessor training courses with 15% off those booked before Valentine’s Day, February 14.

The ABBE diploma courses, run at The Training Centre, Cable Court, Pittman Way, Preston, are ideal for newcomers looking for a new career as well as experienced practitioners such as surveyors, builders, structural engineers, architects, solicitors and local authority specialists.

For businesses requiring conference facilities The Training Centre also includes two purpose-built meeting rooms which can cater for groups of 14 and 18 respectively. Each room is equipped with an interactive electronic whiteboard, overhead projector and Wi-Fi  access can be arranged. Parking is available.

Businesses or individuals requiring information about GB Energy’s training courses or room hire for meetings and conferences should email courses@gb-energy.com or call 0844 770 9522.

Alternatively, visit www.roomsandcourses.com to book a course or reserve a room online.

This seminar gives a light hearted yet informative insight into the complicated world of financial planning in marriage, divorce and civil partnerships, and highlights some of the pitfalls and how to avoid them!

This seminar is aimed at people who are planning marriage, divorce, co-habiting or entering into a civil partnership.  The seminar is also relevant for professionals who provide financial advice to their clients.  Spaces are limited so book now to ensure your place, simply email Debbie Pettitt at dpettitt@marsdenrawsthorn.com or call 01772 799623.

The seminar is being held at the Marsden Rawsthorn offices at Faraday Drive, Fulwood on the 25th February 2010, and commences at 8.30am with registration and a light breakfast available from 8.00am, and will finish no later than 9.30am.

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At eBusiness UK we believe that most business needs can be addressed and solved through the use of online technologies – so much so that we are prepared to put our necks on the line to prove it.
 
We want to make a really big difference in 2010 to the success of a Lancashire based company, as we have with over 300 businesses over the last 11 years.  It’s not about creating a website that looks great but does nothing; it’s about creating a solution that will help you solve a specific objective you’ve set for your business to achieve in 2010.
 
So the real question is – what does your business need to achieve in 2010? And furthermore, how would a £5000 online solution help you do that?
 
To enter your company in the eBusiness ‘WOW’ competition follow this link http://www.ebusinessuk.com/win-a-5000-online-solution.htm

Defence Secretary Bob Ainsworth may come under fire much of the time for the Government’s actions abroad, but this week we heard him tell Parliament that the Typhoon and F-35 aircraft, both of which are key to the future of BAE Systems in the county, should play a leading role in the future of the armed forces. With the recession still impacting on business, and uncertainty facing many industrial sectors, even a small sign of commitment to this industry is to be welcomed. Now we just need a firm commitment…

Are you the creative type?

Do you want to be artist, without having to cut your own ear off?

Mr. Picasso Head is the site for you!

http://www.mrpicassohead.com/create.html?skin=original

We’re going to take a drive out of Preston this week into the Ribble Valley, to Michelin-chef Nigel Haworth’s The Three Fishes in Mitton. Locally sourced ingredients and great, down-to-earth menus that really pay tribute to the county, make this a must-visit venue.

Taking place at Vintage on Thursday 18th Feb. Register now and join us for what is guaranteed to be another great Downtown event.

REGISTER HERE

Name: Tim Aldred

Company: Lancashire Business View

Position: Assistant editor

Football Team: Blackburn Rovers, ever since my uncle first lifted me over the turnstile and sneaked me in for free when I was six

Brown or Cameron: I’m not sure either are putting forward convincing cases at the moment

Favourite Lancashire Bar/Restaurant: The Eagle at Barrow

What’s your Tipple: My dad took me on a tour of a whisky distillery a few years back and we’ve made a point of discovering new types ever since.

Favourite Band: Green Day were my first love

Top Tune: Beer by Reel Big Fish

Favourite Book: Catch 22 by Joseph Heller

Who would play you in a film: I have no idea. I asked the office, and they say either Bart Simpson or Ed Norton

Favourite TV Programme: Soccer Saturday with Jeff Stelling

Most visited website: www.redhotvelvet.co.uk tells me what CDs to buy that weekend

Celebrity Crush: Louise. The one that was famous in the 90s

Interesting Fact about you: I am mentioned in Blackburn Rovers’ all-time leading goal scorer Simon Garner’s autobiography. It’s only a thank you for checking his spelling, but it counts

Why Downtown: Frank will say what needs to be said without worrying about towing the party line. We need more Franks