The Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership (GM LEP) held its November meeting at a Wigan law firm as part of a new initiative to host its bi-monthly meetings in locations across Greater Manchester.
The public meeting of the LEP Board was held at the headquarters of Stephensons Solicitors in Wigan on Tuesday 16 November.
GM LEP is seeking to strengthen its links with each of Greater Manchester’s 10 districts as it delivers the Greater Manchester Economic Vision, working with businesses to innovate more effectively and creating a greener, more productive and inclusive economy.
As part of this approach, the Board will hold its public meetings at local businesses in each district by turn, focusing on key local issues and engaging businesses and civic leaders from the area.
At the November meeting, representatives from Wigan Council gave a presentation about the vision for the borough’s economy, growth ambitions and opportunities. Attendees also heard from host Stephensons, a full service law firm with offices in Wigan, Manchester, Bolton, London, Warrington and St Helens.
Lou Cordwell, Chair of the Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership (GM LEP), said: “We need to ensure Greater Manchester’s economy works for all parts of our city-region. Holding our regular LEP meetings in each of the 10 districts will help us connect with local businesses, councils and communities.
“Thanks to Wigan Council for giving us an insight into all the great work going on in the borough, and thanks to Stephensons for being such accommodating hosts.”
Cllr David Molyneux, Leader of Wigan Council, said: “Hosting the GM LEP gave us a welcome opportunity to discuss the initiatives happening in Wigan to support businesses, attract investment and tackle inequality. Greater Manchester’s future economic growth needs to be inclusive, with opportunities available to everyone in the city-region. We stand ready to play our part.”
Andrew Welch, Managing Partner of Stephensons, said: “The Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership plays an important role in helping to shape the growth and prosperity of communities across Greater Manchester. As businesses begin to recover from the effects of the pandemic, that support has never been as important as it is today.
“For over 40 years, Stephensons has been assisting the people and businesses of Wigan with their legal challenges and we share the vision of the LEP and Wigan Council to help build better lives for the people in our region through innovation and business success. I am delighted to be able to welcome the LEP to the Wigan Investment Centre to learn more about their ambitious plans.”