Digital Publishing
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UK news publisher moves regional title to university journalism department

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Founded in 1886, The Lancashire Post is one of the UK northwest’s most iconic news titles. It is now moving in with the University of Central Lancashire as part of a closer collaboration.

In a surprising move, UK regional newsgroup, National World, has moved the Lancashire Post to the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) campus in Preston.

Described by National World as a ‘forward-thinking strategic partnership’, the collaboration between the Post and the university’s leading journalism department will mean the title will be based at the university’s state-of-the-art Media Factory, near where it was founded in 1886.

The move, back to the heart of the community, will give staff access to modern office space for hybrid
working and meetings. As a consequence, its existing office will close. Lancashire Post and Blackpool Gazette editor Nicola Adam, herself a Google-sponsored graduate of UCLan’s Journalism Leadership and Innovation course, will become the new Publishing Editor.

She says, “This is fantastic news for our staff and titles as it means the best of both worlds with hybrid
working and access to a flexible office with great transport links, not to mention a host of other facilities
including a cafe in the building and parking.”

It’s a fantastic opportunity for innovative thinking around journalism and partnerships and will provide
opportunities for the journalists of the future and for meaningful collaboration with the university as we rethink the industry and demands of younger audiences.

Nicola Adam, Publishing Editor, Lancashire Post

Dr. François Nel of the Media Innovation Studio at UCLan adds, “Journalism has been taught in Preston since 1962, making it the oldest such university program in England and our special relationship with the
Lancashire Post goes back at least that far.

Our relationship has also fed into the pioneering and ongoing innovation at the LEP and the wider
organisation. Having those colleagues as neighbours will ensure we all remain at the cutting-edge of our fields and relevant to the communities we serve.

Dr François Nel, Media Innovation Studio, UCLan

“There is no doubt this strong industry-academic partnership has been key to why The Guardian University Guide 2023 shows we remain amongst the very best. We are ranked No 1 in the North West and amongst the Top 20 nationally for Journalism and Publishing.”