Skills and Economy top of the agenda for Greater Manchester says LEP Chairman Blackburn

Speaking to over 150 pro.manchester members on Thursday, Chairman of the Greater Manchester LEP Mike Blackburn outlined the role of the LEP in the Greater Manchester economy and also some of the challenges it is facing.

Highlighting Manchester as the second largest economic area in the UK Blackburn said that businesses supporting businesses were key to the role of the LEP and that it planned to inject some £30m into programmes within the city which would boost the economy and work to solve the skills gap in the city. The LEP will also work to provide ways for local authorities and businesses to work together to speed up economic recovery.

Mike also alluded to some of the challenges facing the LEP including green belt policy, activity around high speed rail, the manufacturing industry and diminishing jobs.