Economic stability, secure borders and national security are the foundations of the Government’s Plan for Change. To deliver long-term change and achieve the Government’s missions, everything possible must be done to secure these foundations.

This Government is committed to supporting the town of Barrow-in-Furness to play its crucial role in supporting and sustaining the Defence Nuclear Enterprise. The BAE Systems’ Barrow shipyard is the only facility in the UK with the infrastructure, site licence and resource to design and build the UK’s nuclear submarines – including the new Dreadnought class. At the heart of that role is Barrow’s community, and that is why the £200 million Barrow Transformation Fund is a long-term investment in the people of Barrow.

The Barrow Delivery Board is the local governance institution that will decide on use of the Transformation Fund and deliver the Plan for Barrow. The Board, including representation from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Ministry of Defence, will embody this Government’s commitment to empowering local leadership, taking independent and bold decisions in Barrow’s best interests.

The Government is today announcing the appointment of Dr Simon Case as Chair of the Barrow Delivery Board. This is a crucial, outward-facing role that will set the strategic vision of the Board, deliver the Plan for Barrow, and ensure that Barrow’s community sees the fullest benefits. Dr Simon Case was most recently Cabinet Secretary and Head of the UK Civil Service, bringing with him a wealth of leadership experience and understanding of complex policy and delivery challenges. As Cabinet Secretary, Dr Case was part of the development of the Plan for Barrow, providing him with an understanding of both the area and the defence imperative of the work required.

The Government is confident in the Board’s ability to deliver the Plan for Barrow and committed to continuing to work with local partners on this important priority.