In the wake of Brexit and uncertainty surrounding devolution, the Chair of the North East LEP Andrew Hodgson, has reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to leading strategic economic growth in the North East in a letter to Communities Secretary Sajid Javid, saying strong business-led governance and board representation should give the Government confidence to allocate new funding to the region.

Andrew Hodgson said the LEP’s experienced and effective board will provide the leadership required to sustain and build upon the economic growth of the last six years.

“It is now more important than ever, post-Brexit and with uncertainty around devolution in the North East, that business leadership through the North East LEP is front and centre of this agenda for the region.

“It has been an unsettling time for many North East businesses following local devolution decisions and I would like to take this opportunity to inform the Government that the North East LEP remains committed to continuing to deliver for all our stakeholders,” said Andrew Hodgson.

“We are keen to ensure that business leadership and engagement remain at the heart of strategic economic growth.”

Mr Hodgson said the North East had a proven track record of fund management and delivery and that the LEP board remained focused on achieving the Strategic Economic Plan’s aim of delivering 100,000 more and better jobs.

“We have submitted an evidenced and focused programme for Local Growth Fund Round Three and are committed to ensuring that business-led strategic investment decisions are made to enable the strategic economic growth of the North East.

“The current robust governance structure and audited assurance framework for Local Growth Funding provides Government with the confidence to continue to allocate funding to the North East LEP in the current round.”