A BUSINESS leader has welcomed Government plans to put enterprise at the heart of regeneration efforts.
The Lockwood-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce said it looked forward to helping form new Local Enterprise Partnerships to replace regional development agencies like Yorkshire Forward.
Ministers confirmed their intention to abolish the RDAs at a cabinet meeting in Bradford earlier this week.
At the same time, they announced plans for a £1bn regional growth fund to support areas most exposed to public sector spending cuts.
The Mid Yorkshire chamber has now received a joint letter from business secretary Vince Cable inviting them to work with the Government to help strengthen local economies through the LEPs.
Steven Leigh, head of policy at the Mid Yorkshire chamber, said: “We strongly believe that the partnership will provide a solid foundation for setting out a clear vision for business start-ups, growth and economic regeneration in our local geographical area.
But he added: “Notwithstanding the passing of Yorkshire Forward and the need for deficit reduction, the chamber will continue to campaign for the maximum possible Government funding and support for revitalising the economy in our part of Yorkshire.”
