Member Article

Coastal investors have their say on regulation delivery

The Government is giving investors in coastal areas the opportunity to have their say on how regulation is enforced.

Those making investments and running large project on the coast will be able to feed back their experience, good and bad, of dealing with local and national regulators, as part of the Focus on Enforcement campaign.

Business and Enterprise Minister Mark Prisk said: “The Government is keen to support the economic development of coastal communities and seaside towns, promoting sustainable economic growth and jobs, so that people are better able to respond to the changing economic needs and opportunities of their area.

“Dealing with the way regulations are enforced and the different processes for consents, licences and assessments can sometimes be a real issue for those who want to invest in coastal projects.

“That’s why I’m urging anyone involved in making investments and running large projects on the coast to visit the Focus on Enforcement website and let us know your views so that we can consider and take any necessary action.

“We know there are examples of good practice too, so we also want you to tell us on the website about the people who give really good advice and support. This is your chance to make a real difference to the way regulations are enforced.”

The scheme allows for anonymous comments, as well as ‘on the record’ statements, as part of the evidence building.

The thrust of the research is to gain insight into attitudes on regulation delivering, through inspections, advice or enforcement, as opposed to the regulations themselves.

It has been welcomed by the Engineering Employers Federation and the Marine Management Organisation.

Chief Executive of the Manufacturers’ Organisation, Terry Scuoler, said: “Our coasts and estuaries offer a wealth of exciting manufacturing opportunities, such as the marine energy industries emerging up and down the nation’s coast. We must make sure that the regulatory environment supports rather holds back these new ventures. So I wholeheartedly welcome this government initiative.”

Those who wish to volunteer their views and experiences can do so through the Focus on Enforcement site, here.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .