PLANS for the new Enterprise Zone in Lancashire, which could bring 2,000 jobs to the county, are one of the most advanced in the country.

Despite only securing approval for the project from the government in November, the development is steaming ahead of other enterprise zones.

The Lancashire Enterprise Zone is one of the first in the country to be granted an Local Development Order by the Secretary of State for the first phase in the Samlesbury section of the zone.

And work is underway to secure a similar approval for phase one of the Warton site by the end of May.

Under an enterprise zone, new companies are encouraged to relocate to an area and benefit from tax breaks, relaxed planning laws and super-fast broadband.

The enterprise zone is being spearheaded by Lancashire County Council, the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership and BAE Systems.

Edwin Booth, chairman of the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, said: "There is already significant interest from companies looking at the Enterprise Zone as a potential location for their business and the pace with which the Local Development Order has been secured for Samlesbury sends them a very positive message. "

Geoff Driver, leader of Lancashire County Council, said: “We were the last Enterprise Zone to gain approval so the fact that our plans are now ahead of the rest of the country reflects the work that is taking place.”

"We already have some world-leading businesses here in Lancashire, especially in advanced engineering and manufacturing. With the Enterprise Zone, we expect to further enhance our reputation in these sectors."

Cliff Robson, BAE Systems’ industrial capability director, said: “Securing Local Development Order status at Samlesbury is a significant step forward and enables us to pursue prospects with renewed emphasis.”