Communities look set to benefit from a record number of office and industrial premises being built by developers in Enterprise Zones. Our feature writer, Suzanne Danon, explores the recent Government announcement...
Communities Secretary Eric Pickles said this upsurge in construction, which would bring a “big boost” to communities, was down to the improved economy and increased level of stability. He added these investments, some of the first major ones of their kind since the downturn, showed “the increased confidence developers have in many local economies”.
Mr Pickles said: “Enterprise Zones are a great place to do business. That’s why these developers are channelling millions of pounds into these investments. It proves our long-term economic plan is on track, helping deliver the kind of world-class infrastructure that attracts top companies. And that’s great news for the economy and communities because it’s these kinds of businesses that will create jobs for hard-working people.”
He explained that these developments will bring more jobs into Enterprise zones and would provide many “knock-on benefits” for people living nearby, from new services and infrastructure, through to new business opportunities.
More than £230m has been committed to 31 projects across the Enterprise Zone programme so far.
What is your experience of enterprise zones? Will they provide the promised "big boost"? Share your thoughts here.
