A ‘devolution’ workshop for South Essex businesses

October 19, 2015 by Southend Borough Council

A ‘devolution’ workshop for South Essex businesses

Monday 19th October 2015

Local businesses will get a chance to discuss devolution at an event being held in Southend-on-Sea later on Friday 23rd October.

The event follows much national discussion about the “devolution” of government powers to local councils to support economic growth.

Following places like Greater Manchester negotiating their deal with government other deals have been used to address particular challenges that local businesses and communities are facing.

Local councils in Essex, Southend and Thurrock have indicated to government that they too would welcome a discussion and the role of business in the process is critical in helping to develop the proposition and in supporting its delivery,

Kate Willard, Corporate Affairs Director at Stobart Group, and chair of the South Essex Growth Partnership, will be hosting a workshop at London Southend Airport terminal building from 9am until noon on Friday, 23 October.

She said: “Government has made it clear that businesses need to fully integrated in discussions around devolution.

“This workshop is your opportunity to find out what devolution is; what processes there will be as we move towards a devolution deal for this part of the South East; and most importantly how you can influence this debate and outcome.”

The workshop will help to provide an understanding of devolution and the opportunities that it presents with examples of what it has already delivered in other parts of the country.

There will also be a chance for businesses to talk about the issues and challenges they face to ensure we fully understand the needs and opportunities South Essex has.

Glyn Jones, Chief Executive Officer of Stobart Aviation, will also be there outlining plans for the airport’s exciting future serving a regenerated Southend-on-Sea and expanding London Gateway.

Places for the workshop are free and can be booked here.

The invitation is open to businesses and local business networks.