LEP commits to prosperity plan
BERKSHIRE Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has announced its continued role in fostering economic growth and prosperity in the county.
As of April 1, Berkshire LEP will maintain its operations to drive economic development, create jobs, enhance skills and support businesses.
Following confirmation in August 2023 of the Government’s decision to transfer responsibility for LEP core functions to upper-tier local authorities, Berkshire Leaders’ Group has commissioned Berkshire LEP to support the development of a new Strategic Economic Plan for Berkshire.
Berkshire LEP has played a key part in the growth and prosperity of the region, creating jobs, boosting skills and helping businesses to thrive.
Through reaching this agreement, Berkshire LEP is set to continue to deliver comprehensive business, careers education and skills support services to the area, as well as driving other activity which will help to ensure Berkshire’s economic potential is delivered in a sustainable and inclusive way.
“Berkshire LEP was set up as a company limited by guarantee, so in many ways there is no change in terms of company structure or our close relationship with our partner local authorities,” said Bob Beveridge, chairman of Berkshire LEP.
“Our unique role remains as a catalyst for regional growth and prosperity, empowering local businesses with valuable advice, financial resources, and future-ready skills.”
Since its inception in December 2011, Berkshire LEP has been instrumental in delivering £204m of capital investments across 97 infrastructure projects in Berkshire.
Leveraging an additional £125m of private investment, these endeavours have been informed by economic evidence, culminating in the development of plans such as the Strategic Economic Plan, Berkshire Local Industrial Strategy and the Berkshire Recovery and Renewal Plan.
In addition, Berkshire LEP’s work with the Careers Enterprise Company has allowed its careers hub to support the majority of middle and secondary schools within Berkshire to help ensure opportunity in careers.
“We are committed to delivering a diverse array of initiatives tailored to the needs of Berkshire,” added Alison Webster, CEO of Berkshire LEP.