“At the LEP, our focus is on strong sustainable growth, enhanced productivity and a rebalanced economy for the City Region, and I welcome the Chancellor’s commitment to growing the economy not only across the UK but within the Northern Powerhouse.
“Naturally, I am extremely pleased that the Chancellor took the opportunity to reaffirm the critical role of LEPs, particularly in the light of the freedoms and flexibilities that the City Region has gained under the Devolution deal. Going forward, the LEP will be leading on a single growth strategy which will outline a clear vision and focus to deliver sustained, ambitious growth for the future of the City Region.
“The opportunity to vary business rates is a significant one. We will look forward to working with fellow members of the Combined Authority, the LEP Board and the business community more generally to ensure that the City Region uses its new powers to spur on business growth.”