Wirral backs Liverpool City Region’s LEP bid

WIRRAL council is expected to announce its intention to join forces with Liverpool City Region in the formation of a single Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) today.

The coalition government announced its intention to scrap the North West Regional Development Agency in June and replace it with LEPs.

This radical reform is intended to bring business leaders closer to local politicians and accelerate economic development.

Liverpool City Region’s cabinet agreed in principle at a meeting on July 30 to submit an LEP proposal to the government.

Wirral Council’s deputy chief executive Jim Wilkie is recommending to members of its cabinet at a meeting tonight that they endorse the decision to become a part of Liverpool City Region’s submission.

Mr Wilkie said: “Wirral has for many years operated as part of the Liverpool City Region and via The Mersey Partnership (TMP).

“We have collaborated in matters relating to economic development, culminating in the production of a multi area agreement addressing
four transformational actions for the economy.

“These are: the super port, visitor economy, knowledge economy and low carbon economy.

“Wirral Council has consulted with neighbouring authorities and business leaders via the Investment Strategy Board and looked at a number of options for the geographical and economic area that an LEP including Wirral might cover.

“Members are now being asked to formally endorse Wirral’s decision to be part of a Liverpool City Region submission to the government to become an LEP.”

If cabinet members back the proposals, Mr Wilkie is expected to lead the discussions with the Liverpool City Region partners.

Proposals for all LEPs must be submitted to the Government before September 6.