East Midlands Looks To Big Business For Economic Growth
Over half of business leaders in the East Midlands believe that the regional economy is ‘improving slowly’ but 70 per cent do not anticipate a significant upturn until 2015.
That’s according to a poll of delegates attending the East Midlands Challenge Debate hosted by Santander Corporate Banking and construction services company, ISG, in Narborough. The event welcomed lawyers, consultants, colleges, local councillors, transport providers, members of the police service and representatives of the Chamber of Commerce to discuss the factors affecting regional economic growth and debate the best path to recovery.
The debate was prompted by Santander’s decision to make a major investment in its Leicester site, where ISG is constructing a £100 million+ data centre for the international bank. The event was held to discuss the importance of such investment programmes in kick starting the regional economy and debate the other steps that are critical along the road to commercial growth. According to delegates, attracting big business to the region is the biggest single factor that could help boost the East Midlands’ future prosperity, followed by Government funding and support and the ability to attract the very best and most-talented individuals. Increasing overseas export opportunities and attracting investment from overseas were ranked fourth and sixth respectively by those attending the event.
The group’s responses followed a presentation from economic development expert and former chief executive of the East of England Regional Development Agency, David Marlow. Marlow highlighted the challenges of competing nationally and internationally against the backdrop of the end of regionalism and a period of public austerity. The new dawn, he explained, will rely on leadership, co-operation, creativity, competence and confidence. His speech prompted a lively question and answer session as the movers and shakers of the East Midlands economy discussed their views.
ISG’s Craig Tatton, managing director – UK Construction, commented: “We’re delighted to be involved in Santander’s major investment programme in the East Midlands, but it’s clear that more businesses need to invest here to increase confidence in the region’s economic future. One of the key points raised at the session has been that confidence is a great catalyst to growth because it prompts commercial decision making and prevents business from stagnating. We hope the delegates have left feeling inspired to take a creative approach to tackling the challenges that lie ahead as the East Midlands moves towards recovery. ”
Nick Hann; Tel: 07970 275251; Email: nick.hann@isgplc.com
ISG Plc is an international construction services company delivering fit out, construction and a range of specialist services, with 31 offices worldwide. The company works with owners, developers and occupiers in the public and private sector for an extensive range of industries. ISG Plc was established in 1989 and has been quoted on AIM since 1998. Today the company has a turnover of around £1.2 billion.
For further information about ISG please visit our website www.isgplc.com
