Reacting to Government plans for a £285m good growth fund for local authorities, Kate Shoesmith, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“This is a welcome downpayment on Andy Burnham’s pledge to achieve good growth in every postcode. By giving leaders on the ground the funding to back their ambitions to improve their regions it has the potential to be a gamechanger.
“But it is important that all areas have equal access to this pot and that business leaders are involved in the decision-making.
“Successful devolution is built on partnership and works best when firms are in the room. They know what their places need to unlock growth.
“Businesses should have a seat at the table, co-designing and co-delivering the changes that ensure this funding leads to more jobs, innovation and investment. Business is the essential ingredient to good growth in every postcode.”