Multi-million cash injection set to boost Buckinghamshire’s economy
‘A massive thumbs-up for the Buckinghamshire economy’ is how Martin Tett, Leader of Buckinghamshire County Council described today’s multi-million pound cash injection by the Government to support transport, skills and business across the County.
The money, part of the Government’s latest round of Growth Deal Funding will help to deliver the Stoke Mandeville Relief Road, The University of Buckingham Vinson Centre for Liberal Economics, Innovation and Entrepreneurship and the Silverstone Innovation Centre.
The total award of £20.48m will be matched with a further £135.5m of local public and private sector funding. The government’s funding builds on the previous £53m already awarded to Buckinghamshire from previous rounds.
“This is fantastic news for Buckinghamshire and a real vote of confidence by the Government in our ability to generate economic growth both locally and for the Country as a whole,” said Martin.
“The Buckinghamshire Thames Valley Local Enterprise Partnership has done a fantastic job in negotiating this new funding, particularly as they are up against competing bids from 37 other LEPs from across England. Amazingly, it puts Buckinghamshire as a county on par with the ‘Northern Powerhouse’ in terms of the amount of money we have been awarded in proportion to our population”.
“All of the business and public sector partners, who make up the LEP, deserve a massive pat on the back. Buckinghamshire is a very successful, high performing economy already. This award demonstrates the confidence central Government has in Buckinghamshire.
Martin added, “It’s important to remember that economic growth is not just critical for business. It also provides the jobs that people need and the money that pays for vital local services.