The chemical industry in Wyre, Lancashire, has a long-standing legacy, beginning in 1890 with the establishment of the Fleetwood Salt Company. This later became part of the United Alkali Company and eventually Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) in 1926.

ICI’s Hillhouse site in Thornton became a key producer of chlorine, especially during World War II, reaching peak output in the mid-20th century. A dedicated power station was added in 1953. After ICI ceased operations in 1992, the site transitioned into the Hillhouse Enterprise Zone, now hosting modern chemical and polymer businesses, continuing the area’s industrial tradition in a new form.

Agriculture is synonymous with food production, and therefore this sector has been brought together. There is still a disconnect between the producer and consumer which has led to rising health issues from overly processed foods. The challenges Farmers face are not just in food production but also in countryside management, recruitment, climate change and rural crime to name a few.

This sector involves many none typical agriculture business types such as transport, digital, enginering, chemical, laboratories, food production, admin services, genetics so please get in touch as we can steer you to the right advisory team.

Retail and Hospitality are key players in town centre and coastal resort vibrancy. Both contribute significantly to the GDP of the borough. The council is keen to ensure all business owners are provided with the support they need to capitalise on local events, online retail/bookings, improving their own and their workforce skills through training, and to take advantage of local peer-to-peer supply in order to shore up their sustainability.

Fylde Council is investigating the potential of developing the digital high street, facilitates and supports Town Centre partnership/business groups and is seeking funding for town centre regeneration. Support for this sector is also a priority for the County Council, especially those new to running a business and those wishing to expand and grow.

The North West and Lancashire have been associated with Aerospace for decades.  One of BAe Systems’ key sites is located at Warton to the South West of Fylde Borough, employing specialists in defence manufacturing design, aeronautical construction, digital software and other support services.

However, did you also know about the NW Space Programme and support for other transport supply chains, manufacturers and users from cars to tractors, bus’s to construction vehicles? Plus the investment in Hydrogen and electric vehicle charging? Contact the Invest in Fylde Team who can align you with the most appropriate support partner/s.

Are you able to offer a placement to a current college student? Colleges are looking for the support of businesses to offer a work placement where students can experience the world of work and learn more about sectors in which they aspire to work. One of the ways to offer placements is to get involved with colleges offering T Levels.

T Levels are new technical courses studied from age 16 to 19. Students spend 20% of their time in the workplace learning real hands-on skills in their chosen route, so they are ready to join the workforce straight after their course. Businesses who have taken early T Level students on placement often recruit those young people after their course as they know them well and have benefited from their fresh approach and new skills.

This sector covers Organisations working across the social determinants of health including, but not limited to, the arts, sport and recreation, education and training, community development, employment support, environmental initiatives and so on.

Any business, organisation or activity that helps to improve the health and well-being of the community and the individuals within could be eligible for support. Please get in touch and we can connect you to the most appropriate Partner.