Midlands Engine to be wound down as funding cuts confirmed

The Midlands Engine is set to be wound down, it has been confirmed.

The organisation, which promoted growth and investment across from the North-East Lincolnshire over to Shropshire, says its funding is to be cut at the end of this month (March).

In a statement, the Midlands Engine said it will spend time working to conclude its programmes and “ensure that the legacy of our work in region-wide collaboration endures”.

The statement added: “For over a decade, the Midlands Engine Partnership has brought together local government stakeholders, business leaders, our region’s universities and other partners to attract investment, drive regional growth and amplify the Midlands’ voice on the national stage. We are immensely proud of what we have achieved together and remain committed to ensuring that our collective efforts continue to benefit the region in the years ahead.

“In the coming months, we will focus on supporting our talented staff, bringing key programmes to a close and working with partners to maintain the momentum we have built. We will continue collaborating across the region to ensure a smooth transition and to reinforce the Midlands’ critical role in the UK’s economic future.

“We are grateful to everyone who has contributed to and supported our shared objectives. The strength of our collaboration has always been our greatest asset and it will remain a foundation for future regional success.”

The Midlands Engine was set up by the Conservative government in 2015, but many of its functions have been taken on by the elected mayors in the East and West Midlands since.