Kentish Express Ashford & District
Big opportunities ahead, says communities chief
The new Communities Secretary Sajid Javid has described “reasons for optimism” in Kent as he sets out how he wants his department to deal with local government.
Former Business Secretary Mr Javid said he had identified three objectives since taking over from Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark during Theresa May’s cabinet reshuffle last month.
In a letter to the KM Group, he said he wanted the nation to build more homes, push economic growth and “strengthen the bonds between people within our communities”.
“Big opportunities lie ahead for Kent,” he said. “Unemployment is falling, and significant investment has been secured for the local economy. There are challenges ahead, too, but we can overcome them if central and local government keep working together.
“The most effective politics is local politics, and I’m ready to work closely with local government – town by town, city by city and county by county – to build the homes we need, help local businesses grow and cre- ate jobs, and provide excellent public services.”
Mr Javid, the son of an immigrant family who grew up in Bristol, said the vote to leave the EU was a “momentous decision” which had created tensions in society.
He pledged £1 million to support projects which challenge prejudice.
He said: “We must uphold the principles of tolerance and mutual respect – these are the values which bind us together.”
On the county’s economy, he said a series of initiatives have put Kent in a strong position.
He said: “There are many reasons for optimism. A new Enterprise Zone in north Kent is driving innovation in life sciences and advanced manufacturing, while the Thames Gateway 2050 Growth Commission is preparing plans to unleash the huge economic potential of the area.”