New Anglia LEP’s response to the Levelling Up White Paper:
Chris Starkie, Chief Executive of New Anglia LEP, said: “We welcome the new missions outlined in the Levelling Up White Paper and we’re pleased to see Government’s reinforced commitment to LEPs. Ensuring our region benefits from these transformative plans will continue to be our focus and we will work with local partners to fulfil our role supporting our local economy.
“The White Paper supports the ambitions in the newly-published Norfolk & Suffolk Economic Strategy which outlines the role the LEP and partners will play in making sure our region is one of the best places in the world to live, work, learn and succeed in business.
“The White Paper confirms that both Norfolk and Suffolk are among the first areas invited to agree new devolution deals. We have always supported the principle of devolution, provided it brings real benefits and powers for our local area. We will work with our partners over the coming months to look at options for Norfolk and Suffolk.
“Our people will benefit from the extra funding announced for Education Investment Areas in both Norfolk and Suffolk. The Youth Guarantee will further support additional activities for young people and Local Skills Improvement Plans will ensure the needs of businesses will be heard in planning local skills needs and provision.
“Further commitments to 4G and 5G rollout will be welcomed by businesses, as will the commitment to improve pay, employment and productivity for all areas by 2030. Improving local public transport connectivity will be welcomed, as will pledges which will improve town centres.”
