ADEPT's response to MCHLG's Strengthened Local Enterprise Partnerships
ADEPT President, Neil Gibson said: “ADEPT fully supports the view that locally-led Local Industrial Strategies are vital for the country’s economy. Successful strategies developed from widespread consultation will enhance productivity, help deliver community prosperity and provide a blueprint to secure regional economic growth post Brexit.
“Partnership is key to effective local economies so we welcome the Government’s emphasis on collaborative approaches, including engagement with Combined Authorities and with neighbouring LEPs. We know a sense of place is important to people and that big isn’t always beautiful, so we would caution against a move towards mergers in areas where the existing partnerships have a strong identity and are working well .
“In areas where there are issues with underperformance and transparency, we support the Government’s intention to develop peer review and intervention if required. It is only right that there should be scrutiny, accountability and support for any organisation that is part of public life.”