What the business world says

Preston should be home to a 'new arena and conference venue' says one of the city's business groups.

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Unveiling their economic proposal for the city area the Preston Partnership have backed proposals for a major new venue in the city.

Chair of the Preston Partnership, John Chesworth, said a new venue would send an 'open for business' message beyond the city's borders.

Mr Chesworth said: "Preston Partnership and its members have been clear: a new arena and conference venue must be a strategic priority for Preston. We're already losing events and concerts to other places, and that risk will only grow without a new venue.

"Cities that have backed the creation of new purpose-built events and conference centres have seen major economic, cultural and profile benefits.

"ACC Liverpool generated £207m for its city region in its first year, and Glasgow's Scottish Event Campus delivers around £450m annually.