URL: https://committeeadmin.lancaster.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1569

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose:

Content: (Cabinet Member with Special Responsibility Councillor Hamilton-Cox)   Cabinet received a report from the Chief Executive to seek Cabinet’s support for a collaborative bid to Government for an AI Growth Zone in the Lancaster District.   The options, options analysis, including risk assessment and officer preferred option, were set out in the report as follows:   Supporting the proposal aligns with the Council Plan, supports our local economy and shows leadership in looking to take advantage of an opportunity for our District and the wider region.   Not supporting the proposal will forgo our opportunity to lead for our communities and collaborate with a range of partners.   The officer preferred option is that Lancaster City Council continues to work with partners to submit a collaborative proposal.   Councillor Caroline Jackson proposed, seconded by Councillor Bottoms:-   “That the recommendation, as set out in the report, be approved.”   Councillors then voted:-   Resolved unanimously:   That Cabinet supports Lancaster City Council’s involvement in the development of a proposal for an AI growth zone in the district.   Officer responsible for effecting the decision:   Chief Executive   Reasons for making the decision:   There is considerable interest in submitting a collaborative bid for an AI Growth Zone to be located around the Imperial Road site in Heysham and it is  clear that we do meet the Government’s criteria which is set out in Appendix A to the report.   The decision is consistent with the Council’s aim for a ‘An inclusive and Prosperous Local Economy’ and the outcomes of sustainable innovation, sustainable skills and investment and regeneration.   

Date of Decision: May 20, 2025