The Economic Intelligence Unit to be based at Walsall Council

A team of economists and analysts specialising in people, place and business is to be based at Walsall Council.

The Economic Intelligence Unit (The EIU) will continue to provide opportunities for public sector organisations, councils and others across the region to access intelligence and analysis as a resource.

The evidence and work of The EIU has previously contributed to establishing key economic development structures and plans. This includes the Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership (BCLEP), the Black Country City Deal, the Midlands Engine Observatory and West Midlands Combined Authority’s Strategic Economic Plan and the Local Industrial Strategy.

The EIU also supports the strategic intelligence needs of the City of Wolverhampton and the Borough Councils of Dudley, Sandwell and Walsall, the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and the Midlands Engine.

Cllr Mike Bird, leader of Walsall Council, said: “The EIU has provided Walsall and our neighbouring authorities with a robust evidence base for over 20 years now. This is really adding value to our processes and decision-making across key areas including regeneration, skills, business and the wider economy.

“It is our pleasure to have The EIU based at Walsall Council on behalf of local partners and the wider region, ensuring the unique skill and resource of this vital asset continues now and far into the future.”

Professor Delma Dwight, director of The Economic Intelligence Unit, said: “Given recent local changes in economic development structures, we are delighted that The EIU’s expertise and resource is being maintained. We are driven by a passion for providing evidence-led, data-driven insights to support local decision-makers.

“We look forward to continuing this support at a time of great need for communities and businesses, for the good of the Black Country and the wider Midlands region.”