Huddersfield University’s recession-busting plan gets wider backing

May 20 2009 by Joanne Douglas, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

A PLAN to beat the recession is being given government backing.

Huddersfield University vice-chancellor Prof Bob Cryan is leading the way forward after developing an action plan to help the local community.

Prof Cryan came up with a pledge of action to help the town and local businesses deal with the effects of the economic downturn.

And now his master-plan has gained wider support, getting the backing of government minister Rosie Winterton.

All of Yorkshire’s universities have also signed up to the plan to help their own communities, staff and students.

Prof Cryan welcomed the move and said: “As large employers of over 33,000 staff who make a significant contribution to our local economy it is clear that we can assist businesses in meeting the challenges this recession brings.

“This is not only through continuing and, where possible, bringing forward building and maintenance projects, but also offering our expertise to help businesses take advantage of all possible opportunities and to emerge from the recession ready to grow again.”

The pledge includes paying promptly, backing the local economy, promoting job vacancies with the Job Centre and bringing building work forward.

Yorkshire minister Rosie Winterton said: “I very much welcome the fact that all our higher educational bodies from across Yorkshire and the Humber have signed up to this economic pledge.

“The combined economic power of Yorkshire universities is of enormous benefit to this region and their commitment to the pledge should not be under-estimated.”