WORLD CLASS WORCESTERSHIRE

I really believe we are seeing a growth in confidence in Worcestershire which will lead to more quality jobs, especially for our young people to develop rewarding careers.

That’s why WLEP’s strategic objectives include the promotion of new employment sites located close to UK’s main infrastructure. Those sites are now evolving and we regularly read of progress towards major developments along the M5 corridor past Worcester, with activity increasing also at Kidderminster, Malvern and Redditch.

Matching further education output with the needs of business has been grasped by our colleges. The newly merged Heart of Worcestershire College is committed to help fill the skills gap being experienced by many manufacturers. Pershore College is developing strongly with a £6m extension imminent, whilst South Worcestershire and Kidderminster Colleges are also improving their offers and results.

The people of Worcestershire have responded well, which is brilliant. Two recent memorable examples are the turnouts for the Tour of Britain cycle race and last week’s Worcester 10k race, where a ‘feel good’ atmosphere was clear to see.

Sport can both help build confidence and promote Worcestershire as a great place to live and therefore to build a business. With Worcester Wolves as national basketball champions, the county cricket club set for promotion, and the Warriors hopefully on a similar upward path, there is much to be positive about.

So at the LEP Annual Conference at Chateau Impney on Friday 10th October we will focus on growth and the promotion of World Class Worcestershire. That’s why Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Sajid Javid MP, will address us and BBC News’ Mary Rose will compere the event. Over 250 are already signed up so do register via www.wlep.co.uk – it’s free!

Peter Pawsey

Executive Chair

Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership