Member Article

Cities Minister visits Newcastle

The Cities Minister is in Newcastle to discuss the details of the Core Cities deal with local leaders in Newcastle and Gateshead.

It is hoped that the new plans will free cities from Whitehall control in a number of areas, and will give local communities more say over how their area is run in a bid to create new opportunities and to stimulate growth.

Greg Clark MP will also visit the North East Local Enterprise Partnership and the Enterprise Zone to discuss the impact the decision will have on the region.

Describing Newcastle as one the country’s “economic powerhouses”, Mr Clark commented: “I want to work closely with the local enterprise partnership and local councils to agree a new deal that will successfully drive growth across the North East.

“I have no doubt about the ambition of local leaders in Newcastle to get this right, and I am determined that powers and tools are handed down to them to grow their economy.”

Paul Woolston, chair of the North Eastern LEP believes the deal will have a positive impact on the region, and is committed to ensuring its success. He said: “I am delighted that the Government has given the green light for Newcastle to progress and implement a new city deal.

“Increased flexibility, from Whitehall, to deliver growth and employment will benefit the wider North East economy.`’

Newcastle has been named as one of the eight largest English cities outside of London to be involved in the project, which the government plans to roll out to other areas in due course.

Councillor Nick Forbes, Leader of Newcastle City Council, said: “At a time of high unemployment and low or no growth nationally, we are determined to make our city a ‘Working City’ and help lead the North East region out of recession and into sustainable growth.

“We are determined to be open for business and do all we can to create the best conditions for new jobs and investment.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .