Barrow to be granted ‘royal’ status on the PM's visit to the town
It's for Barrow’s ‘unique and critical contribution’ to national security
The Prime Minister will announce Barrow has been granted ‘royal’ status on a visit to the town on Thursday.
Sir Keir Starmer is set to announce the King has agreed to confer the ‘Royal’ title to the Port of Barrow in recognition of the town’s ‘unique and critical contribution’ to national security as home of nuclear submarine building in the UK.
The title is a recognition of the ‘dedication and commitment’ of the people of Barrow in delivering the submarines that protect the nation, now and for decades to come.
King Charles hopes to visit the town in due course to mark the town’s ‘proud heritage and prosperous future’.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:
“Each and every person living and working in Barrow is contributing to our nation’s defence, whether that is building our world-class submarine programme, or supporting the workforce here through vital public services or proud family businesses.”
The town’s shipyard is delivering Astute attack submarines alongside the Dreadnought boats that will form the UK’s at sea nuclear deterrent.
Barrow will also play a vital role in delivering the AUKUS programme – a joint endeavour between Australia, the United States and the UK – with the first SSN-AUKUS attack submarines being built at the BAE Systems site.
Defence Secretary John Healy said:
“Our triple lock pledge for Britain’s nuclear deterrent will see all four Dreadnought-class submarines built in Royal Barrow – a generational commitment that is transforming this town.
“This is one of the most complex projects ever undertaken in this country, representing the very best of British engineering.
“Our commitment to the nuclear deterrent is unshakeable – it is the ultimate guarantor of our national security and the security of our NATO allies. And this national endeavour is also an engine for jobs and growth in Barrow and beyond.”
This comes after former MP for Barrow and Furness Simon Fell launched a campaign in 2023 for the town to achieve royal status.
In a letter to former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the former Conservative MP emphasised the town’s history and the pivotal part it has played in the UK’s industrial and maritime achievements.
The letter adds:
“Granting Royal Town status to Barrow-in-Furness would not only be a symbolic recognition of our town’s rich history, but also a catalyst for economic and cultural rejuvenation.
“The enhanced status would undoubtedly attract investment, stimulate tourism and provide hope and optimism for our tight-knit community.”
The campaign also received support from the former Lord Lieutenant, BAE, Westmorland and Furness Council, Cando FM, The Mail, the Rotary Club, as well as local arts and community groups.
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