Let us help you make our economy grow, Beds and Luton business leaders urge local authorities.
09/06/2008
Put economic development at the top of the agenda. That was the message sent by business leaders from Bedfordshire and Luton to local authorities. Members of the Bedfordshire Business Leaders’ Forum, which is facilitated by the Chamber, urged local authorities not to forget topics such as skills, infrastructure and developing the local economy as they regroup with the formation of new unitary authorities
The business leaders emphasised the need for individual authorities to fully engage with each other to ensure development and promotional plans were sufficiently robust, joined up, complementary and not overlapping. They also urged the authorities to make the most of the growth plans for the Milton Keynes and South Midlands area by putting parochial concerns aside and working together for the good of all in Bedfordshire and Luton.
Said Richard Lacy, Chief Executive of the Chamber:
'Engagement by local authorities with business has never been more important. The growth area plans present a great opportunity for our area and we must ensure that Bedfordshire and Luton benefit. To lose out on the potential gains simply because local authorities are distracted by internal organisational concerns would be a tragedy. We are aware that many local authority officers are working tirelessly to ensure this doesn't happen. Businesses are keen to work alongside them to ensure that business concerns are addressed and we achieve the best possible outcome for our area.'
