Businesses, media, local government, universities and the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) discussed and debated the future of Nottingham’s economy at a major business event this morning (February 3).
Around 100 business and other representatives took part in the Nottingham Economic Forum – organised and run by the Insider Media business magazine – at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Nottingham, from 7.30am to 9.30am.
David Ralph, Chief Executive of the D2N2 LEP (Pictured, far left) – a private sector-led partnership which promotes economic growth and jobs creation across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire – was invited to be part of a panel debating, amongst other things, the impact of the planned North Midlands Devolution (the devolving of central government powers and budgets to local control) and what it could mean for the Nottingham area, as well as the wider region.
Today’s panellists also included:
- Panel 1
- Nick McDonald, Portfolio Holder For Jobs, Growth And Transport, Nottingham City Council
- John Proctor, Director, Fisher Hargreaves Proctor
- Simon Gray, Chief Executive, Nottingham Means Business
- Mark Sanders, Partner, Blenheim Chalcot
- Panel 2
- Ian Curryer, Chief Executive, Nottingham City Council
- Glenn Crocker, Chief Executive, BioCity
- David Ralph, Chief Executive, D2N2
- Professor Sir David Greenaway, Vice-Chancellor, University of Nottingham
Questions put to the panel, by Insider Media’s Business Editor Ian Griffin and members of the audience, covered such topics as support for SMEs, the workplace parking levy in Nottingham City, transport links, inward investment, the marketing of Nottingham as an area to do business and Devolution.
On SME growth, David Ralph said: “Growth is about growing high growth businesses, but I want to see small businesses, the core of Nottingham’s economy, be supported as well.”
Ian Curryer added: “We’ve got great global businesses here, but our economy is built on SMEs.”
Professor Sir David Greenaway, elaborated on this point further, by discussing the University of Nottingham’s work with both small and overseas businesses, particularly highlighting the University of Nottingham’s links with China.
Perhaps the most discussed issue at this morning’s event was Devolution and in particular, how it would impact Nottingham.
David Ralph said: “There is no silver bullet for growth and skills, this is about working harder, faster and better. Nottingham’s time is now, but business engagement in the plan is vital. Devolution and the Midlands Engine will deliver direct benefits into the Midlands.
He added: “If you have a strong and growing economy, it raises the area’s quality of life. Devolution is all about bringing in local levers to achieve this faster.”
A proposed North Midlands Devolution Deal document – setting out the final negotiating position of the local authorities, business organisations and business leaders behind the bid – was published earlier this year (January 5).
To find out more about the D2N2 LEP, click here
To find out more about Insider Media, click here
To read a copy of the draft document, click here
For more information about this media release please contact D2N2 Social Media and Marketing Officer Sam Burbage on 01159 578254 or by email sam.burbage@d2n2lep.org
