Winckley Square gardens is to host the business networking event

A business networking event is returning to its original home at Winckley Square gardens.

Preston Business Improvement District’s regular Hangout event had to be moved while the restoration work took place.

A tree is to be planted during the event to mark the North Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce’s centenary year coming to a close.

Chief executive of the chamber of commerce Babs Murphy said: “The Chamber’s Centenary programme has been enjoyed by thousands of individuals representing hundreds of local businesses. The Centenary Hangout officially signifies the end of our centennial year and the start of a new-chapter for Winckley Square’.”

The Hangout event has been on tour during the Heritage Lottery Funded work taking in different venues.

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More than £1.5m was spent on the Square with drainage issues resolved and new paving and a hard-standing area put down.

Chair of Preston BID John Boydell said: “The Winckley Square Community Interest Company, the body established to protect and develop the square, in partnership with the BID, local authorities and Groundwork CLM have done a tremendous job of bringing the square back to life.

“The area is of great professional and historical importance to the city and to see a major project like this realised creates a great deal of positivity amongst local businesses.”

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The Centenary Hangout takes place in the gardens between 2pm and 4pm on Thursday 26 January. Places to attend are free by emailing bid@lancschamber.co.uk or calling 01772653000.

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