Insider Media Limited

Almost a third of staff at regional development agency Advantage West Midlands (AWM) have applied for voluntary redundancy. The agency’s 326 staff were all invited to apply for redundancy as part of huge government-imposed cuts, and 97 showed their interest by the 9 August deadline.

AWM is expected to be abolished in March 2012, when it will be replaced by the new local enterprise partnership (LEP) scheme.

The applications are currently being processed.

A spokesperson for AWM said: “It is unlikely all of these will result in redundancies because some may be considered 'business critical' positions. The complex nature of the scheme also meant some staff had submitted applications to seek clarity from the Department for Work and Pensions on exit terms and conditions.”

Chief Executive Mick Laverty said the organisation must “strike the right balance”.

He said: “Until the organisation is fully phased out by March 2012 we still have an important programme of work continuing to promote economic growth in the region within budget limitations.

"At the same time we are very conscious that this is a difficult time for our staff whose expertise and commitment have contributed to the agency's achievements and we are offering support and advice to those considering moving on."

Staff offered redundancy will be given until 17 September to accept any offer, and will leave the organisation by October 22.