Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership has set up a delay-busting forum for expanding companies experiencing barriers to growth through the planning and consultation process.
Headed by the LEP’s business board chairman Tony Hyde, the forum will consult with and advise businesses across the county on their expansion or relocation plans, however preliminary or advanced.
“We want to hear of all serious growth proposals, both large and more modest, but particularly where they are frustrated by planning, financial, land release, staffing, training or other issues,” said Mr Hyde.
“One of the proactive steps the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (WLEP) can take is to work with businesses, developers or funders to explore how we can best assist them in overcoming hurdles.
“Our aim is to be the ‘honest broker,’ also working alongside the planning authorities, county and district economic development teams, and other consultee agencies to smooth the passage towards a faster outcome, and thereby accelerate the process towards expansion and the creation of more jobs.
“We’re aware of several examples where companies are seeking to locate in Worcestershire or where existing companies are ready to invest in growth, but are finding the processes far too difficult or time consuming – to the point where they are either giving up expansion plans or choosing not to locate in Worcestershire at all.”
Worcestershire LEP is already assisting a swifter and more positive passage through one such development proposal – the sponsor has the land, a development agreement in principle, the business case and the funds required, but planning and other procedures are proving so frustrating that they may turn their back on it.
“We cannot allow this to happen when hundreds of jobs are at stake and we are optimistic of a swift resolution," continued Mr Hyde.
