C-J Green, Chair of New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership, said in response to the mini-budget announced today by Chancellor Kwasi Karteng:
“We are pleased to hear about the Government’s plans for low-tax Investment Zones and delighted to see Norfolk and Suffolk included. They promise to offer compelling benefits to business as evidenced by our own Enterprise Zones which have boosted 4,934 jobs, supported 216 businesses, and unlocked 137ha of development land over the past few years. We need to see more detail about these proposed new zones and precisely where they would be located, as Local Plans and other statutory planning regulations will need to be taken into consideration. But we will be working with local authority colleagues to support a strong case to Government for zones in our area.
“We are also pleased to see the Government commit to speeding up large infrastructure projects such as offshore wind and new nuclear which have been bedevilled by delays. These schemes will bring well-paid sustainable jobs to our area and are critical to ensuring energy security for the UK.
“Businesses will also welcome the scrapping of the National Insurance Contributions increase given the significant other cost pressures they are facing. We will continue to support businesses and I would urge any companies which are facing difficulties to get in touch with our team of advisors at New Anglia Growth Hub.
“We were however disappointed not to see the Ely area rail scheme included in schemes prioritised by the Government, particularly given recent promises made by the new Prime Minister.”
