THE Warrington Property Review takes an annual look at the key investments and deals around Warrington.

Construction activity and commercial premises occupancy are key indicators of economic vibrancy and so even though you may not be in the construction or letting industry it’s still worth a read.

The highlights from this year include the continued establishment of Omega with key companies such as Plastic Omnium (Manufacturing) and Hermes Parcelnet (Logistics).

These are two critical industries for Warrington and key drivers of economic growth.

The status of Birchwood as an Enterprise Zone is both a recognition of the importance of the area and an opportunity to draw further investment.

As a resident it’s useful to note that despite the fact that average wages are relatively good in Warrington house prices remain reasonable, with semi-detached houses averaging £177,000.

You’re better off in Warrington living and working in Warrington it seems.

The enlargement of the Time Square development and the new community facilities in Victoria Park indicate that retail and leisure is on the up too. So overall Warrington’s economy indicates strong foundations for growth, based on the investments progressing.

So forget the rest, Warrington is the Northern Powerhouse.

  •  LAWRENCE Bellamy is associate dean at the University of Chester's Padgate campus and writes a regular column for business.