LEPs frustrated over Government funding plans says Christie

LOCAL Enterprise Partnerships are becoming increasingly frustrated by the Government’s reluctance to outline funding plans for the new bodies.

Francis Christie, chairman of Worcestershire LEP’s Shadow Board, said his direct questioning of Communities Secretary Eric Pickles at the National LEP Summit in Coventry had failed to provide any clarity on the matter.

“I was surprised by his bland response that no money will be available – remember this was just a day after the Prime Minister pledged such strong support business growth,” said Mr Christie.

“All he (Mr Pickles) said was that the Government had been impressed by the submissions to the first round of the Regional Growth Fund and that more money may be put into that.

“It is very frustrating to hear this, especially when you compare it to the hundreds of millions made available to the Regional Development Agencies.

Mr Christie said he hoped the Government was just keeping its powder dry for the Budget and it that it would review how it might overcome barriers to funding.

In the absence of any clear guidelines from Government, Mr Christie said he was talking with Worcestershire County Council about plans for economic development.

“We recognise there is long-term value in focusing on job creation and concentrating on growth, however, until there are any clear guidelines from Government many organisations are struggling to see beyond the short term,” added Mr Christie.

Elsewhere, members of the Black Country LEP have met with Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP James Morris to discuss how more support can be provided for the area’s manufacturing businesses.

Issued addressed included boosting the number of apprenticeships available and raising the level of skills in the workforce.

Those attending included the Black Country Chamber of Commerce plus representatives from Runflat International, Hadley Group, NDC Polythenes, George Green and the Sandwell Chamber of Commerce.

The meeting proved so useful that the companies have agreed to meet on a regular basis from now on.
 
Meanwhile, in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire three experienced business leaders are being sought for the area’s LEP.

LEP chairman Jim Rickard said: “The new board members will be established figures in business who are able and willing to bring their skills and experience to support and improve the local economy.

“They will know the challenges facing business and the most effective ways these can be addressed. We look forward to the bringing the new members on board and increasing the LEP’s knowledge base.”

Candidates have until March 25 to apply.