Insider Media Limited

The creation of an enterprise zone in Leicester would cap off a "pivotal" year for Leicester, according to the new deputy chairman of the Leicester and Leicestershire Chamber of Commerce. Kevin Harris is calling for the creation of a zone in the city and told Insider: "An enterprise zone would be hugely important for the city; every region needs some incentive to attract investment."

He added: "This year will see a major shift for Leicester – with its first directly elected mayor and LEP - businesses need to really push their agendas now and make sure people hear what they need."

Chancellor George Osborne laid out plans to create 21 zones across the UK in his Budget speech last month. So far, the locations of ten have been announced, with the East Midlands receiving one in Notttingham.

Harris said proposals had been put forward for the creation of a zone in Leicester, which would give businesses tax breaks and introduce lighter planning regulations.

He said: "It would be a very significant coup for the city if it is granted a zone – certain parts do need some real investment. I can see a case for extending the scheme if it works and there's demand for them – we need to stimulate growth and investment."

Harris, partner at business advisory firm Cooper Parry, was appointed deputy chairman at the chamber after serving as a non-executive director for the past three years.

A directly elected mayor will have "a major impact" on Leicester's businesses, he said.

"It will represent a huge shift – whoever takes on the role will need to know the priorities of local businesses. Previously, decisions lay with the city council, but now businesses really have the chance to push their agenda.

"Business leaders have to realise it's a really important time for them," said Harris. "They need to get involved with the elected mayor and the LEP and work for the opportunities which will arise."

The line-up of Leicestershire's LEP board has not yet been revealed.

Regarding the LEP board, Harris said he wanted to see a board of business leaders led by "someone with a business background who, ideally, has worked in the region".

He said: "It would be great to have someone who knows what it's like to live and work in the region. And obviously, the more prominent the person, the more attention and draw there will be to the organisation.

"I know who the candidates are – and there are some very strong contenders."