Gavin has welcomed additional LEP funding from Government, which will support work that is currently underway to boost jobs and growth in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
The additional funding for Local Enterprise Partnerships - announced today by the Chancellor - will further support work to stimulate economic growth and job creation in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, the area’s LEP chairman has said.
The single local growth fund (SLGF) will enable LEPs to bid for part of the £2bn allocation from the Government for projects in their area.
Gavin said: “This additional investment is extremely welcome and I hope that multiple projects in South Staffordshire are able to benefit from the single local growth fund."
Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire LEP chairman Ron Dougan added: “A further commitment to investment in jobs and growth across the country is welcome and we look forward to quality projects here demonstrating how they can increase the number of jobs locally.
“The funding will be available in 2015 and we will aim to ensure it builds on successes we have already achieved. Through continued close working between the private and public sectors we know we will have the drive and commitment over the next two years to achieve much more."
The SLGF will form part of the package of support for business, essential for long term growth.
The Chancellor has also made a commitment to further investment in apprenticeships and increasing UK exports – areas that are already a major focus within South Staffordshire.
The West Midlands region has a high take-up of apprentices and the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire LEP is currently working closely with UKTI to ensure local businesses can overcome perceived barriers to expanding their overseas markets.