New partnership a LEP forward for Coventry & Warks
THE formation of a new Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) in Coventry and Warwickshire could see the area become one of the most vibrant regions of the UK, business leaders have said.
The new Coventry and Warwickshire Enterprise Partnership is being formed to take on some of the responsibilities currently overseen by regional development agency Advantage West Midlands, which is being axed under plans introduced by the Coalition Government.
A first draft of the LEP framework has been drawn up by Coventry, Solihull and Warwickshire Partnership (CSWP) – a collaboration between Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and the area’s local authorities.
The draft document went to the CSWP board last week and is being developed further before being submitted to the Government by September 6.
Brian Woods-Scawen, chair of CSWP, said he believed the possible formation of the LEP represented a major opportunity for the area.
“The board wants to be bold in our plans for Coventry and Warwickshire. They will be built on a commitment to business growth, innovation and investment, supported by the intellectual power of our two great universities.
“The Government wants to hear propositions from all areas of the UK and we have a compelling offer and feel this is a real opportunity we can seize for the good of the region,” he said.
The chamber has been a prime mover in the initiative and recently hosted a meeting of around 100 businesses at its headquarters in Coventry.
Chief executive Louise Bennett said: “Business needs to be a key driver in the LEP – something stipulated by the Government – and we are very pleased with the progress being made.
“Business requires surety and consistency and having a local body which makes decisions based purely on the well being of this area and its economy, creating jobs and investment, has to be welcomed.”
Alan Farnell, leader of Warwickshire County Council, said: “We believe that we are perfectly placed to form a successful LEP because not only is the locality a strong economic performer but we have a very good track record in working in unity.”
Proposals for other parts of the West Midlands have yet to be finalised. The Birmingham, Solihull, Lichfield and Tamworth chambers are keen on a combined LEP but the Black Country chamber is adamant it wants to go it alone.
