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5000 jobs and £300m of investment: Get involved in plans to shape the future of Sunderland and South Tyneside

Sunderland and South Tyneside Councils are urging residents and businesses to put forward opinions on a joint venture which is said to have the potential to transform the economic fortunes of the areas for generations to come.

Seeking public opinion on the proposed International Advanced Manufacturing Park (IAMP), an initiative which would provide a world-class environment for high tech industries and advanced manufacturing businesses, the councils are this month opening up a series of consultations.

It is anticipated that the scheme can create more than 5,200 new jobs by 2027 in innovative industries and drive economic growth by attracting more than £300m of private investment.

The two councils have this week (8 August 2016) launched a consultation on a draft Area Action Plan (AAP). This document provides a policy framework guiding the cross-boundary development for the next 15 years. It follows previous consultations on the vision, including consultation on three location options in early 2016.

Councillor Paul Watson, Leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “The IAMP is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the Sunderland and South Tyneside economies, bringing with it a wealth of possibilities for our communities.

“We are encouraging future generations to aspire to high-quality and skilled jobs and creating compelling reasons for them to stay in the North East. With the industries and investment the IAMP will attract, it will be a game-changer for our current and future workforce.

“We’d encourage everyone, from residents, to students and businesses, to get involved in this consultation and have their say for the future.”

Councillor Iain Malcolm, Leader of South Tyneside Council, said: “Our economies are built on the skills; determination and dedication of our workforce. IAMP will build on this foundation and provide an energetic setting that will put us on the world stage for advanced manufacturing in the automotive industry.

“Input from the community has been invaluable to date. The proposed development framework is based on what people told us was their preferred option during the previous consultation.

“Now’s the time for the community to get in touch and help shape how IAMP will be taken forward.”

For information on how to get involved click here.

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