THE MAYOR of the West Midlands was joined by regional leaders as he took the region’s Growth Plan to Westminster – pressing the case for jobs, investment and opportunity in every part of the region.
Accompanied by MPs, ministers, local politicians and businesses, Richard Parker hosted an event in Parliament designed to put the West Midlands at the forefront of Government thinking.
The Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Peter Kyle, joined the event to underline the importance of national priorities working hand in hand with local plans – and to give the plan Government backing.
The Mayor was also joined by members of his taskforces – the groups set up by the Mayor to help guide policy and actions that tackle some of the region’s biggest challenges and deliver the Mayor’s key priorities.
Mr Parker, said: “The Growth Plan is rooted in the strengths of our region – from advanced manufacturing and health tech to the creative industries and clean energy. Built with business, backed by government and designed for delivery.
“But it will only succeed if national priorities and local action come together.
“I came to Westminster to make the case that our region is ready to deliver growth, create good jobs and tackle the inequalities that hold too many people back. The West Midlands will not be an afterthought – we’ll be at the forefront of Britain’s future economy.”
The Growth Plan sets out flagship projects across the region, including the the Coventry City Centre and Investment Zone Growth Corridor including Green Power Park, the Sports Quarter and Birmingham Knowledge Quarter and Metro extension connecting Sandwell and Dudley.
Peter Kyle, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, said: “I’ve only been in post a short time, but Richard has already made sure the voice of the West Midlands is loud and clear in Westminster. I was delighted to stand alongside him and regional leaders in Parliament, making the case for jobs, investment and opportunity in this region.
“The change people expect will only happen if we work together – Government and Mayors side by side – to deliver for communities across the country.”
To read the Growth Plan in full visit the WMCA’s website.
