Regional Minister Phil Hope has written to key regional and sub-regional bodies where he expresses his hopes for rapid progress in implementing the proposals (see link below)
The reforms make it easier for action to be taken at every level to boost jobs and skills, support businesses and make sure that all areas are making plans for recovery from the economic slowdown.
Economies don't conform to local authority areas. The plans announced today ensure that powers are available to take decisions at the right level.
Today's announcement follows a public consultation on some of the commitments outlined in the Sub National Review of Economic Development and Regeneration (SNR) in July 2007. Government will legislate on these powers at the earliest opportunity.
There will be:
- a new duty on local authorities to assess the economic conditions of their area
new legal powers to help local authorities work together on economic development
- a new board of Local Authority leaders to provide stronger leadership at the regional level and to take over accountability from Regional Assemblies
- a streamlined process for regional planning
- a joint duty on Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) and the Local Authority Leaders Board to prepare and agree a single strategy for each region outside London
In its response to the consultation, the government has taken account of the views of stakeholders. In particular, the joint approach agreed by the RDAs and the LGA has been the basis for the Government's approach, which will deliver both strong partnership working and more streamlined strategic planning in each region.
For a copy of the formal consultation responce and further information please view the The Sub-National Review web page.
See also on our website:
