The Barrow Town Centre Deal Board has elected BAE Systems’ chief infrastructure officer as its chairman.

Steve Cole, who is responsible for businesses sites, facilities and IT assets in the defence giant’s maritime division was unveiled at the first meeting of the newly created board.

Mr Cole, who is based at BAE Systems in Barrow and is also a member of the influential North West Business Leadership Team, will lead a board responsible for creating a roadmap for Barrow’s economic development.

Mr Cole said: “There’s a growing excitement and optimism regarding the future of Barrow and I’m delighted to be part of the group helping to drive this forward.

“The first meeting of the new Town Deal Board was a significant step in this journey, and I’m delighted to be working alongside other members of the board in helping shape and deliver a brighter future for Barrow.”

The Barrow Town Centre Deal Board will vie for up to £25 million of funding for a range of regeneration, infrastructure and skills projects from the Government’s £3.6 billion Towns Fund.

Earlier this month in-Cumbria exclusively revealed the board’s creation following the decision to close regeneration body Furness Economic Development Forum after its funding dried up.

Its membership is drawn from the public, private and voluntary sectors who will act in an advisory capacity to Barrow Borough Council.

Its primary focus will be on creating an investment plan which, following a period of consultation with the community, will be submitted to the Government this summer.

Barrow Borough Council leader, Councillor Ann Thomson, said the Towns Fund “has the potential to secure a bright future for Barrow”.

“The Town Deal Board brings together people with a huge amount of experience and expertise to help create a successful proposal for funding from the Towns Fund,” she said.

“This is an exciting time for our community as we look to find ways to create new jobs, develop skills and support businesses in Barrow for years to come.”

And its “vital” importance to rejuvenating the town was also stressed by board member and MP for Barrow and Furness, Simon Fell.

“Now we have to knuckle down and show that Barrow means business,” he said.

Councillor Anne Burns of Cumbria County Council pinpointed the opportunity to create jobs, support small businesses and raise the aspirtations of young people through the board.