Councils to continue driving economic growth in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire

Businesses across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire will continue to receive specialist support and guidance thanks to a new joint committee.

The committee which will be set up by Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Staffordshire County Council will offer collaborative support and give local businesses a voice on a national level.

Moving forward the councils will take on the responsibilities of the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) when its operations end in April. Current LEP funds will be transferred to Staffordshire County Council and ringfenced for the growth hub, careers hub and Local Visitor Economy Partnership, with any decisions on their use being made jointly by both councils.

These plans were approved at Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s cabinet meeting earlier this week (Tuesday).

Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “For the last decade, the LEP has brought together businesses and local leaders to drive economic growth across the area. This is something which has been a real asset to our city.

“As we move forward we are keen to ensure this new chapter in the way we work with Staffordshire County Council and businesses will result in a stronger local economy and will increase opportunities for local people to benefit. We want to shout about the city and have our voice heard on a national level.”

Staffordshire County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for economy and skills Philip White said: “Ensuring our businesses are at the heart of the conversation when local authorities make decisions that affect them is a priority to the county and city councils. Together we will ensure that we build on the foundations put in place by the LEP.

“Through our new joint committee, we will also be a strong voice for businesses across our area, with a focus on securing funding for infrastructure development and future economic growth, both from government and private investors.

“The committee will steer the work of the growth hub, careers hub and the newly established Local Visitor Economy Partnership, which will champion the county and city across the UK and internationally.”