SECURE YOUR SPACE | NorthFold: Delivering growth across Wigan and Bolton
Join the leaders and chief executives of Bolton and Wigan councils for an unmissable afternoon looking at the latest insights on the transformational NorthFold project – set to contribute an estimated £356m to the UK economy by 2035.
NorthFold: Delivering growth across Wigan and Bolton will be held from noon to 5pm on 27 November at Toughsheet Community Stadium in Bolton. In addition to two dynamic panel sessions, the event will include ample opportunities for networking and a buffet lunch. Tickets are free, but need to be reserved in advance.
NorthFold is set to revolutionise the Bolton and Wigan economies, delivering 3.6m sq ft of industrial space, 9,000 homes, and a new link road. Underpinned by six catalyst projects, NorthFold will usher Greater Manchester into a new era by revitalising town centres, establishing clusters for food innovation, primary health innovation, and advanced manufacturing.
This event is a chance to learn more about this exciting project and how your business can get involved.
Held the day after the Autumn Budget, it will also provide a chance to discuss the government’s fiscal plan and what it means for regeneration in Greater Manchester and beyond.
Be at the forefront of Greater Manchester’s future. Secure your seat at NorthFold: Delivering growth across Wigan and Bolton today.
Confirmed speakers
Cllr Nick Peel is the Leader of Bolton Council. First elected to the council in 2000, he has held a number of cabinet portfolios covering children’s services, housing, environmental services, regulatory services, the economy, and skills, as well as serving as chairman of planning. A proud Boltonian, Peel is an enthusiastic ambassador for his home town and is always ready to champion Bolton’s many economic, cultural and sporting achievements.
As leader, one of his key priorities is the ongoing transformation of Bolton Town Centre including the flagship redevelopment of Crompton Place. The regeneration and economic wellbeing of the wider borough are at the heart of his vision for the future. Peel is also the portfolio lead for the digital city at Greater Manchester Combined Authority.
Cllr David Molyneux is the Leader of Wigan Council. Elected to the council in 1982 for the Ince Ward, Molyneux is an engineer by profession. In the latter part of his career, he was the head of purchasing in the aerospace industry. Since being elected Molyneux has served the council in a number of positions including chair and vice chair of the planning and development committee and has served on the housing, highway and works, and policy and resources committees.
He was elected Leader of Wigan Council in May 2018 after holding the position of deputy for the previous 10 years where he had responsibility for the environment and regeneration. As Leader, he retains the portfolio for economic development and regeneration. He also holds the GMCA portfolio for resources and finance.
Sue Johnson is the chief executive of Bolton Council. An accountant by training, Johnson joined Bolton Council in 2008 as deputy treasurer, later becoming treasurer, corporate director, and deputy chief executive before being appointed chief executive in 2022. Her priority is building and strengthening relationships with key stakeholders, including employers, investors, and developers.
Johnson has overall responsibility for the council’s regeneration masterplan, a comprehensive vision for redevelopment backed by policies to boost local investment, attract more visitors, and capitalise on Bolton’s unrivalled cultural offer. She is passionate about projects that give Bolton residents the opportunity to enhance their physical and mental wellbeing.
Alison McKenzie-Folan is the chief executive of Wigan Council. McKenzie-Folan has a robust history in the public sector, having worked in local government for the last 15 years and previously in the civil service for 20 years. She is also the place lead for health and care integration on Greater Manchester’s Integrated Care Board and the GMCA lead chief executive for health and care, culture, and the GM Resilience Forum.
McKenzie-Folan is passionate about public services and determined to make a difference for residents and communities. She is dedicated to inspiring the next female generation and committed to collaboration, innovation and technology. She is chair of iNetwork and is a board member of the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives and spokesperson for SOLACE on the digital agenda.
McKenzie-Folan is also a board member for Open Data Manchester and Wigan and Leigh College. In June 2024, she was awarded an OBE for services to local government. She was also named in the Northern Power Women Top 50 Power list and one of the most influential digital leaders in Greater Manchester. Wigan Council was named LGC Council of the Year 2019, Northern Power Women Large Organisation, iESE Council of the Year 2021 and APSE Council of the Year 2023.
Book your ticket using the form below – if you can’t see the form, please contact [email protected].
