New report: devolve more money & powers to LEPs

A new report, Making Local Economies Matter, recommends an accelerated devolution of powers to LEPs (Local Enterprise Partnerships).  The report reviews in detail the policy lessons from the Regional Development Agencies and LEPs and concludes that more jobs, growth and wealth generated locally are a vital part of a balanced economy.

Published by think-tank The Smith Institute, and written by John Healey MP and Les Newby, the report finds a “mixed scorecard” for LEPs, but adds “there is also sufficient evidence to support the belief that reorganised, properly resourced LEPs based on real economies could become powerful drivers of local growth and prosperity.”

It calls for “A fresh policy framework…both to correct weaknesses within Whitehall and to give business-led LEPs the powers and resources they need to succeed,” and sets out four core recommendations for stronger, sustainable and more effective LEPs:

1. Clarify the purpose and functions of LEPs;
2. Put in place clear governance and accountability for LEPs which balances national and local interests;
3. Review and rationalise LEP geography;
4. Provide LEPs with the certainty and independent single pot resources they need to deliver long term.

What next?

• Read the report in full – available from The Smith Institute here (96 page, pdf)