Four universities join forces to tackle Lancashire and Cumbria challenges

Summarised from 4 outlets · Updated 11 Nov, 15:58 · Archive

Four universities in Lancashire and Cumbria have signed a Civic Universities Agreement to work with public bodies on economic growth and social progress.

Four universities in Lancashire and Cumbria have joined forces through a Civic Universities Agreement (CUA), a formal commitment to work collaboratively with public sector bodies and civic partners. Edge Hill University, Lancaster University, the University of Lancashire, and the University of Cumbria are leading the initiative, which aims to improve opportunities for residents, boost economic growth, and drive social and environmental progress across the two counties.

The agreement has been signed by a wide range of organisations, including the Lancashire Combined County Authority, Westmorland and Furness Council, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, Blackpool Council, Lancaster City Council, and the University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust.

The partnership identifies six priority themes: economic growth, workforce development, reducing health and social inequalities, environmental sustainability, building connected communities, and strengthening the region's identity. It also commits to attracting additional investment through joint research bids and developing a unified narrative for the region.

Councillor Brian Moore, cabinet member for economic development and growth at Lancashire County Council, welcomed the agreement. 'This civic agreement recognises the valuable role universities play in the communities they serve,' he said. 'The commitment to work together to secure investment, address challenges such as skills gaps and create new opportunities for our communities is very welcome.'

The four university vice chancellors issued a joint statement describing the Civic Universities Agreement as 'a demonstration of our commitment to work collaboratively for the benefit of our communities and take a longer-term, strategic approach across Lancashire and Cumbria.'

How it is being reported

• Four universities unite to tackle challenges facing Lancashire and CumbriaFour universities have joined forces in a new partnership to tackle major regional challenges in Lancashire and Cumbria.Cumberland News · 11 Nov, 15:37
• Four universities unite to tackle challenges facing Lancashire and CumbriaFour universities have joined forces in a new partnership to tackle major regional challenges in Lancashire and Cumbria.Westmorland Gazette · 11 Nov, 15:37
• Four universities unite to tackle challenges facing Lancashire and CumbriaFour universities have joined forces in a new partnership to tackle major regional challenges in Lancashire and Cumbria.Whitehaven News · 11 Nov, 15:37
• Four universities unite to tackle challenges facing Lancashire and CumbriaFour universities have joined forces in a new partnership to tackle major regional challenges in Lancashire and Cumbria.NW Evening Mail · 11 Nov, 15:37

In this story: Edge Hill University · Lancaster University · University of Lancashire · University of Cumbria · Lancashire · Cumbria · Councillor Brian Moore · University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust

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