LEPs must provide “long-term certainty”, says BIS
The government will consider proposals for Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) based on their ability to provide long-term certainty to their regional economy, a spokesperson from the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) has told Insider.
Meanwhile, Richard Wilkins, president of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Chamber, has welcomed the decision to bid for a private sector led, cross-county Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).
He said: “The LEP must be cost effective, business focussed and innovative to create the conditions for business and enterprise to flourish in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. The Chamber will continue to work with partners to develop a dynamic new partnership.”
“The Chamber will continue to consult with the wider business community about the support that is needed and the barriers that need to be overcome to create jobs and wealth in the private sector.”
In addition to the details regarding the creation of LEPs, the BIS spokesperson also confirmed that the organisation was looking at creating elected mayors for the 12 biggest cities in the UK.
He added that some roles previously undertaken by Emda should be led nationally, including inward investment, sector leadership, and responsibility for business support, innovation and access to finance such as venture capital funds.
The spokesperson added: “We anticipate that local enterprise partnerships will wish to provide the strategic leadership in their areas to set local economic priorities and create the right conditions for business growth. We want to hear what roles and activities would best allow them to take advantage of the opportunities for growth and enterprise in their communities.”
