Austin Macauley 16 April 2014

Report: LEPs too focused on ‘narrow idea of economic success’

Local enterprise partnerships must broaden their focus if they are to deliver a lasting economic impact, according to a new report.

A study by the Centre for Local Economic Strategies judged areas using a ‘whole place’ approach that examines the strength of networks between different sectors and whether both social and economic priorities are being met.

Overall it found most LEPs were failing to build what it termed ‘resilient local economic strategies’.

It found just 56% of LEPs had representatives on their boards from the voluntary and community sector. The Marches LEP – which covers Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin – came out top with 14% of its board coming from the VCS. Cumbria LEP ranked highest in terms of small business representation with more than two-thirds of its board from SMEs.

The report said focusing on ‘big business’ alone would not deliver the economic and social resilience needed for successful places. It called on LEPs to focus on a mix of social and economic priorities and to ensure all sectors are represented.

Neil McInroy, chief executive of CLES, said: ‘This work highlights how some LEPs are relying on a narrow idea of what economic success looks like.

‘For CLES, a resilient local economy does not just create business growth, but also strengthens local economic infrastructure, builds social institutions and addresses poverty and social issues. This work sets out a baseline and some recommendations so LEPS can start to build resilience.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

PRINCIPAL TRANSPORT PLANNING OFFICER

Hull City Council
£43693 - £46731
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional to join our team in Hull as a Principal Transport Planning Officer. Kingston upon Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire
Recuriter: Hull City Council

HIGHWAYS AND TRAFFIC ENGINEER - 4 POSTS

Hull City Council
£43693 - £46731
We have several exciting opportunities for suitably qualified Highways Civil Engineers and Traffic Engineers Wilson Centre, 1st floor, Hull HU1 2AG
Recuriter: Hull City Council

Strategic Director, Finance and Resources (S.151 Officer)

Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council
£110,799 - £120,706
Blackburn with Darwen is a distinctive, welcoming and vibrant borough with a strong identity and a genuine buzz about the place. Blackburn, Lancashire
Recuriter: Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council

Residential Worker, Edge of Care Service

Durham County Council
Grade 7 £29,093 - £32,654 PAY AWARD PENDING
Join a Groundbreaking Team Supporting Families in Seaham Salary
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Bikeability Cycling Instructor

Durham County Council
Grade 4 £24,790 to £25,992 pro rata (Pay Award Pending)
The Road Safety Team are keen to recruit additional Casual Bikability Instructors to join our team of instructors delivering Bikeability cycle trainin Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner