We review all the highlights from the Lancashire Development Update 2026, hosted at the IMAX Arc Cinema in Blackpool.
It was great to connect with you at the latest Lancashire Development Update. We were proud for Blackpool to host the event at the recently relaunched IMAX Arc Cinema.
The event, sponsored by Blackpool Council, Roma Finance and Morgan Sindall Construction, brought together the region’s decision-makers, industry influencers and innovators who are all working on projects to help shape the future of Lancashire.
With over 180 attendees on the day, we discussed the region’s major projects and continued pursuit of growth and regeneration, hearing from inspiring speakers from across the region including growth and prosperity programme director at Blackpool Council, Nick Gerrard.
The day kicked off bright and early at Blackpool’s IMAX Arc Cinema with arrival, networking, and breakfast from 8:00am. The room was quickly full and buzzing, ready for a packed morning of insight and discussion.
Dan Whelan, deputy editor at Place North West, opened proceedings at with a warm welcome, framing the day’s themes around growth, regeneration, and the evolving regional property market.
Mo Isap, chief executive officer of IN4 Group, started the day with an inspiring speech about the Lancashire and the many wonderful things we have to boast about here. He also delivered a compelling and highly-relevant presentation that explored innovation, digital infrastructure, and the role of technology in driving economic growth.
The first panel discussion, “State of the Market,” followed and brought together a heavyweight lineup: Alex Gardiner (Metro Dynamics), Cllr Lynn Williams (Leader of Blackpool Council), Nick Mullins (Axis Real Estate), James Scott (Maple Grove Developments), and Chris Hayward (Preston City Council). The panel offered a candid and insightful overview of current market conditions, investment appetite, and the challenges facing both public and private sectors. Topics ranged from regeneration opportunities and planning hurdles to the long-term outlook for the North West.
Attendees returned after a short break for the second panel discussion focussing on the residential sector. Chaired around practical delivery and demand, the RESI panel featured Ian Scott (Ocasa Homes), John Winstanley (Story Homes), Deborah Smith (Smith & Love), Saira Hussain (HAD & Co), and Les Warren (Progress Housing Group). The conversation dug into housing supply, affordability, planning reform, and the evolving expectations of residents, with key takeaways for developers and local authorities alike.
Growth and prosperity programme director at Blackpool Council, Nick Gerrard, then took to the stage to outline ongoing and future initiatives aimed at boosting the town’s economic profile. His presentation highlighted the key projects in town within Lancashire’s Growth Plan, funding mechanisms, and the council’s strategic vision, underlining Blackpool’s ambition and momentum.
The final presentation by John Pye, project director for Eden Project Morecambe, was an update on the landmark scheme, offering insight into the project’s progress, community impact, and transformational potential for the wider region.
The morning concluded with closing remarks, followed by lunch and further networking. Delegates left the formal sessions with plenty to talk about, and the lunch period was filled with follow-up conversations, new connections, and reflections on a morning that balanced big-picture thinking with practical, on-the-ground realities.
Overall, the event delivered a strong mix of strategic insight, sector-specific discussion, and regional ambition. With high-quality speakers, engaged panellists, and a collaborative atmosphere, it was a valuable and energising morning for everyone involved.
