Theresa May gives LEPs major vote of confidence

The country’s Local Enterprise Partnerships have a ‘vital role’ to play in the UK’s economic future after Brexit, the Prime Minister has said.

Mrs May told the LEPs – the bodies responsible for driving economic growth in each of their regions – that their work was helping to ensure the country continued to thrive during the EU withdrawal process.

Her comments came as she chaired the second meeting of the Council of Local Enterprise Partnership Chairs at Downing Street, which was attended by Graham Wynn, chair of the Marches LEP which covers Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin.

Mr Wynn said the meeting confirmed the LEPs role as the key body responsible for building partnerships to build thriving economies in each of their regions.

The Prime Minister thanked the LEPs for their work to help deliver the modern Industrial Strategy across the UK.

She said: “Local Enterprise Partnerships have a vital role to play in delivering our modern Industrial Strategy.

“Working closely with government, their leadership is helping make sure businesses thrive as we prepare to leave the European Union.

“I was pleased to hear directly from LEP representatives how they are bringing together the local business community, universities and other partners to design long-term, ambitious plans tailored to the strengths and needs of their areas.

“Using their unique insight and expertise to co-develop Local Industrial Strategies, LEPs are boosting economic growth, securing jobs and delivering prosperity – making sure that no community is left behind.”

Mr Wynn said each of the LEPs recognised the importance of reflecting the specific strengths and potential of their own area in their plans and agreed on the importance of making sure that Local Industrial Strategies delivered a meaningful difference to local growth.

He said: “Through working with our partners in business, the public sector and Government we can make sure we make the most of the opportunities greater collaboration and innovation will bring.

“We will be holding a detailed conversation throughout the coming months with all our partners to ensure the Marches area builds on its success to date and continues to thrive.”