Our story
Founded in 2018 by private sector business leaders in partnership with Preston City Council and the University of Lancashire, Preston Partnership has grown into a dynamic community of over 100 members.
Our membership spans professional and financial services, property and construction, retail and leisure, manufacturing and inward investment.
Our board brings together senior leaders from both the private and public sector, united in a shared focus to build an ambitious Preston partnership, shape Preston’s future and tell Preston’s story.
Throughout the year, we run a quarterly #InTheCity event, consult with members on opportunities and challenges facing Preston, as well as engage with local authority leaders on economic and place strategy.
Preston Partnership played a pivotal role in establishing the Preston Regeneration Board (PRB), bringing together Preston City Council, Lancashire County Council and the University of Lancashire.
Our work was evidenced in March 2021, when a sub-committee of Preston Partnership – the Towns Fund Board – secured a £20.9 million Town Deal. This has unlocked a transformational £200 million development programme in Preston’s Harris Quarter.
The impact of the work can be felt across Preston. In 2025, Preston celebrated the opening of Animate, the city’s flagship cinema and leisure destination featuring major international brands, and the much-anticipated reopening of the Harris Museum following its £19m restoration.
We also led the development of Preston’s ambitious City Investment Plan, a 15-year strategy that will shape Preston’s future development.
Our focus
Build an ambitious Preston partnership
To bring together an ambitious community of people determined to help Preston realise its potential.
Shape Preston’s future
To work with local authorities and partners to generate ideas, help shape place direction and support investment opportunities.
Tell Preston’s story
To work with partners to help build a positive profile for the city.
