Power shift can liberate Birmingham, says chamber
The government's move to shift power from Whitehall to the cities will help Birmingham "shape its own destiny", business leaders have said.
But Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Group (BCCG) added it was vital that the government stands by pledges from Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg in his Unlocking Growth in Cities document.
Chief executive Jerry Blackett said the promises to hand power down to local government need to be "more than the rhetoric experienced in the past".
"Generally his announcement is a welcome move and we look forward to seeing the detail," he said.
"Liberating England's cities is of massive importance. Birmingham is itching to be released and to be allowed to shape our own destiny. Hopefully, the announcement will see us move some way towards being able to achieve this."
He added that more detail was needed surrounding the planned single capital pot for transport, which could lead to Birmingham setting priorities locally for organisations including Network Rail and the Highways Agency.
