Town's bid to lead the region
Adam Hewitt • Published 4 Jul 2010 11:00
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READING wants to be at the heart of a new economic partnership which is replacing regional bureaucracies scrapped by the Government last week.
Local Enterprise Partnerships are being formed in the place of regional development agencies as drivers of business growth.
Council spokesman Oscar Mortali said: "The council views Local Enterprise Partnerships as a platform to make proposals for enhanced partnerships based on 'natural economic areas' and not on administrative boundaries. Reading leaders view it as an opportunity to focus on economic prosperity and regeneration and a chance to enhance the visitor economy in the area, support small business start-ups and work closely with the University and local colleges."
He said council chief executive Michael Coughlin would spend the next few weeks considering its position before responding to the Government consultation on the issue.
Economic development leader Cllr Mike Townend said: "This is a great opportunity to work together with businesses, neighbouring authorities and other stakeholders to take the lead and create an environment for business and enterprise to thrive in a way that is appropriate for, and specific to, our local area."
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