Member Article

NELEP issues letter to Sajid Javid reaffirming growth commitment

In light of Brexit, government upheaval and uncertainty surrounding devolution, Chair of the North East LEP Andrew Hodgson has reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to leading strategic economic growth in the North East.

Writing a letter to Communities Secretary Sajid Javid, Mr Hodgson argues that the existing strong, business-led governance and board representation should give the government confidence to allocate new funding to the region.

Andrew Hodgson said the LEP’s experienced board will provide the leadership required to sustain and build upon the economic growth of the last six years.

“It is now more important than ever, post-Brexit and with uncertainty around devolution in the North East, that business leadership through the North East LEP is front and centre of this agenda for the region” said Andrew.

“It has been an unsettling time for many North East businesses following local devolution decisions and I would like to take this opportunity to inform the Government that the North East LEP remains committed to continuing to deliver for all our stakeholders,” said Andrew Hodgson.

“We are keen to ensure that business leadership and engagement remain at the heart of strategic economic growth.”

Mr Hodgson said the North East had a proven track of fund management and delivery and that the LEP board remained focused on achieving the Strategic Economic Plan’s aim of delivering 100,000 more and better jobs.

“We have submitted an evidenced and focused programme for Local Growth Fund Round Three and are committed to ensuring that business-led strategic investment decisions are made to enable the strategic economic growth of the North East.

“The current robust governance structure and audited assurance framework for Local Growth Funding provides Government with the confidence to continue to allocate funding to the North East LEP in the current round.”

What do you think? Will the government continue to fund the region amid uncertainty? Have your say in the comment section below.

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