NWDA not looking to run LEPs, says Hough

THE NORTH West Regional Development Agency has said that it will not seek to run Local Enterprise Partnerships in the region once the Coalition Government produces its White Paper in the autumn.

In response to a story on TheBusinessDesk.com yesterday quoting a joint statement issued by NWDA chief executive Steven Broomhead and chairman Robert Hough stating that it was “working with partners” on a proposal to adopt a regional approach to economic development, the agency has said that it is not looking to run the proposed Local Economic Partnerships but adopt a smaller role as a region-wide strategic body.

“The coalition Government has made it quite clear that RDAs are being abolished and we are currently working with Government and our staff to ensure an orderly process is followed, that staff are supported and that we leave the strongest legacy for the whole of the North West region with continued economic recovery,” said Mr Hough.

“In terms of the future structure of economic development in the region, there remains a number of uncertainties that will become clear as the Government publishes its proposals for LEPs. 

“What is certain is that the NWDA will not bid to be a LEP. There could be support for a relatively small strategic body that underpins and supports the work of LEPs.  However, this is for local authorities and business groups to consider in formulating any LEP proposals.”