Energy security is a topic that has been pushed to the centre of the agenda in recent years, with the Government giving increasing support for the nuclear industry as a source of low carbon and domestically produced electricity. Fylde has long played its part, with nuclear fuel manufactured at Springfields since 1946, and the industry’s Nuclear Week in Parliament has offered a great chance to meet with the wider nuclear energy sector and discuss the progress we have seen in recent years.
There have been a wide range of events, celebrating the historic and continued success of sites like Sellafield, home to Calder Hall, the world’s first commercial nuclear power station, as well putting a spotlight on the apprenticeship and broader career opportunities available in the industry. These opportunities are hugely beneficial to our local and regional economies and Fylde sits proudly at the heart of the North West nuclear arc. The arc stretches from Anglesey through Cheshire, Lancashire and into Cumbria, bringing with it jobs, investment and supporting countless local businesses.
On the topic of energy generation in the North West, I met with BP and Flotation Energy, the organisations behind the proposed Morgan and Morecambe Offshore Wind project.
I have been far from happy with the level of engagement with me, local councillors and residents to date, something I have raised with them in writing, and I was therefore pleased to have the opportunity to explain my thoughts on the project and its potential footprint in Fylde.
Off the back of this meeting, it is a positive news that a further consultation will be held from 12th October to 23rd November, giving residents a chance to make their voices heard via a series of pop-up events, formal meetings, and an online webinar. Further information about this consultation, and the proposals, is being published online via https://morecambeandmorgan.com/transmission/ . I will also be providing updates on my website as and when I have them.
This weekend saw a fantastic flurry of late summer events, with a display of classic cars in Lytham, St Annes RNLI station open day and Fairhaven Lake Regatta.
But the undoubted highlight for me was the St Annes International Kite Festival, as participants travelled from all corners of the UK and across the world to take part. This year’s edition was the largest ever and I was privileged to visit on Friday evening, joining the crowds to witness the wonderful kites on display and take in a truly stunning sunset.
The thousands who turned out for the festival created a real atmosphere and I was heartened to see our local shops, restaurants and bars buzzing with customers. None of this would have been possible without the dedicated efforts of Craig Harby and all those at Smile Factor 10 who work year-round to ensure that the Festival continues to be a success and I know that all those who attended will share in my gratitude for their work.