IS the LEP (Local Economic Partnership) good for Herefordshire ?

Various comments are being made in this paper about the LEP which I think need to be explained.

Herefordshire is part of the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership which also includes Shropshire, and Telford and Wrekin. Recently the LEP has produced a Strategic Economic Plan. This is important because it allows us to compete for investment funds for future major infrastructure projects which will support economic growth.

The submission is a list of 10 such projects, 3 of which are for Herefordshire

1. Inner City Link Rd. This road opens up the opportunity for up to 800 new houses together with new business opportunities and an estimated 760 new jobs.

2. A49 to A465 link. This link is vital to the future expansion of the Hereford Enterprise Zone. It is envisaged that this will open up land for 1000 new homes and support a 1000 new jobs.

3. Model Farm at Ross on Wye. It is hoped this will support over 1000 new jobs.

While these are very specific projects please be clear that Herefordshire Council supports all economic development throughout the county in many different ways – to suggest otherwise is disingenuous. This process is for specific LEP funding only. Our prime objectives are to care for the vulnerable and to invest for jobs for present and future generations. With reference to the latter, we continue to seek funding from wherever it is available – not just via the LEP.

Given some comments made re the accountability of the LEP, it will interest readers to know that the three main members on the board who have the major voice on decisions are the leaders of the three Local Authorities.

They are all elected. Other board members include leading businessmen and women, leading members from education and non-profit organisations and all bring their considerable expertise to bear for our collective benefit.

Tony Johnson

Leader, Herefordshire Council