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Engineers Urge Enterprise Partnerships To Aim For Investment And Growth

2nd November, 2010

THE Institution of Civil Engineers South West has welcomed the confirmation that two local enterprise partnerships (LEPs) have been approved across the region and urges businesses and councils to now work together to ensure there is adequate regional investment.

A number of bids from across the South West were submitted to the government in response to the coalition’s request for the creation of LEPs, which will replace aspects of the Regional Development Agency’s role.

Successful bids in the region include Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly and the West of England.

Trish Johnson, Regional Director of the Institution of Civil Engineers South West, said: “We’re pleased that the uncertainty is over and that local authorities and businesses can now concentrate on making the LEPs work.

“We would urge business communities, local authorities and partners to consider the multiple benefits of addressing the South West’s infrastructure needs – we believe this must form an integral part of any future plans for our region.”

The councils and a number of key business organisations are aiming to act as one voice for the area when it comes to pressing the government for more support and funding for strategic investment. 
This includes improved transport links and broadband to facilitate commerce, tourism and investment and create a climate for jobs, growth and prosperity.

ICE’s annual State of the Nation report highlights the infrastructure challenges the government must address. It includes a briefing note on the South West and can be accessed at: http://www.ice.org.uk/Information-resources/Infrastructure-policy-and-reports/State-of-the-nation.

ENDS