Warton Enterprise Zone

Warton Enterprise Zone 

A hub for aerospace innovation and advanced manufacturing in Lancashire.

Warton Enterprise Zone is a 75-hectare site in Fylde, Lancashire, adjacent to BAE Systems’ operations. The site builds on a legacy of aviation excellence and is now a prime location for aerospace, defence and emerging technologies. It provides development-ready plots and a strong innovation network for forward-thinking businesses.

Development Opportunities

Flexible development options to suit your business needs.

Warton Enterprise Zone offers:

  • 8.5 hectares of land across 5 plots
  • Unit sizes from 385 sqm (4,145 sqft) to 2,740 sqm (29,495 sqft)
  • Design and build, leasehold and freehold options

Perfect for offices, innovation hubs, training centres, R&D labs and light manufacturing facilities.

Ready for Business

Comprehensive infrastructure and planning support.

The site features:

  • Local Development Order (LDO) with 28-day planning approval
  • Serviced plots with utilities and broadband
  • Enhanced access via the new £200m Preston Western Distributor and Edith Rigby Way

These improvements reduce lead times and increase development certainty.

Innovation and Industry Leaders

Warton supports future flight and space sector innovation.

Anchors include:

  • BAE Systems – home to its Military Air & Information business
  • University of Lancashire's Altitude facility – one of the UK’s largest indoor test environments for uncrewed and space technologies

Sectors supported:

  • Drone tech (VLOS/BVLOS)
  • eVTOL and sustainable CTOL
  • HAPS and space research

Strategically Located

  • Prime Fylde Coast location with easy access.
  • Minutes from the M55 and M6
  • Near Blackpool International and Manchester Airports
  • Two-hour catchment: 6.9 million people, 3.1 million workforce
  • Efficient road, port and rail connectivity enables access to UK and international markets.

Backed by Lancashire

A supportive environment for business growth.

Invest in Lancashire offers:

  • Site selection and setup support
  • Access to Rosebud Finance and Growing Places
  • Skills, recruitment, and university partnerships
  • Planning, funding and infrastructure guidance

Success Stories

Warton is already home to major industry players.

  • BAE Systems – world-leading defence and aerospace innovation
  • University of Lancashire Altitude – fostering SME and academic R&D collaboration

Economic impact by 2035:

£100+ million GVA

Up to 14,800 jobs supported in the wider economy

Talk to Us

Let’s make your investment happen.

Whether you’re exploring your options or ready to move, our team is here to help. We can support you with:

  • Site viewings and introductions
  • Planning and infrastructure details
  • Funding opportunities
  • Local partnerships and recruitment

Get in touch today to arrange a conversation.

Transformational Project

Case Studies from Warton Enterprise Zone Enterprise Zone