Following a day in Leicestershire, former government minister, Lord Heseltine was enthused by local partners’ efforts to develop the economy.

Invited to Leicester by Andrew Bacon, chair of the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP), Lord Heseltine met with political and business leaders to discuss local economic initiatives.

He was inspired by the progress made with economic plans and the developments at MIRA Technology Park which was granted Enterprise Zone status in 2011. The Enterprise Zone is set to become the most cutting-edge, independent transport research and development technology park in Europe, offering advanced research and development facilities to tenant companies.

During the visit, Lord Heseltine said of the Enterprise Zone:

“It’s a brilliant plan – I couldn’t be more impressed.”

Andrew Bacon said:

“The Government clearly has an agenda to devolve powers and funding to Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) where there is local knowledge and expertise. We have been encouraged to declare our strengths and build a strong business case for more funding to deliver growth.”

Lord Heseltine has been heavily involved in supporting the work of LEPs across the UK, following his report ‘No Stone Unturned’ commissioned by the Government.