Backing for LEP scheme (From Basingstoke Gazette)

Backing for LEP scheme

9:35am Friday 20th August 2010 in

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Sir.–We would like to add the support of Destination Basingstoke to the borough council’s proposal for a Basingstoke and North Hampshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

Basingstoke is a vibrant town and has shown some resilience to the current economic climate.

However, it needs to recognise the need to work with other locations with which it shares many characteristics, infrastructure issues as well as strategic vision, if it is to continue to prosper – particularly in an environment where investment from the public sector is scarce.

The Basingstoke and North Hampshire area, whilst a real functional economic area, is not an area widely recognised as such – indeed this is part of the current issue – and it will need to develop a strong marketing plan to ensure the LEP can operate effectively in attracting both private and public investment.

Destination Basingstoke, as a not-for-profit marketing organisation with a wide range of local businesses represented on the board, would like to assist in developing and delivering such a marketing plan.

All businesses can contribute to the debate on LEPs, by attending the council’s free event today, or taking part in our online poll (see destinationbasingstoke.co.uk).

Basingstoke and North Hampshire currently offers an enviable quality of life, supported by quality business, of which we are very proud.

The LEP will help ensure that we retain and improve this position, and maximise the positive impact of any investment.

–Felicity Edwards (managing director) and Mike Loftus (chairman), on behalf of Destination Basingstoke Ltd, Deanes Building, London Road, Basingstoke.