Our comment on the Levelling-Up White paper

Alun Rogers, chair of Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire LEP, said:

“We welcome the long-awaited publication of the Levelling-Up White Paper, which highlights Government’s recognition of the important role that LEPs like ours have played in delivering value for local businesses and the economy to date.

“As a region home to high-profile education institutions like Staffordshire and Keele universities, which are already pioneering in the innovation sphere, the Paper’s focus on investing in research and development is something we particularly welcome. It was also great to see Stoke-on-Trent referenced as a key recipient of support for bus improvements as part of today’s announcements.

“We will be taking some time to consider the full document but look forward to continuing to deliver impactful work through our current arrangement. Through our close engagement with the public sector across the region, education partners and local businesses “on the ground”, we will continue to focus upon supporting skills, jobs and the economy and promoting further opportunity across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.

“We look forward to understanding how a continued emphasis on strong local leadership and public-private sector collaboration will enable Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire to move forward and thrive in the future.”

For further information, please contact Emily McGowan-Phoenix at Social at emily.mcgowanphoenix@social.co.uk or on 07393233435