The LEP Network

Heart of the South West

The Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has been formed under the leadership of the private sector supported by the local authorities from Devon, Plymouth, Somerset and Torbay to create a powerful economic alliance. Its objectives are to create new jobs, raise productivity levels and increase average wages.

With a diverse economy, the area has many strengths, including: outstanding expertise in low carbon energy generation (notably nuclear power and renewables), the defence sector, marine and maritime industries. There is an exceptional landscape and coastline, including two National Parks, providing an unrivalled tourism experience and quality of life.

Heart of the South West also has two world class universities and excellent further education colleges helping to provide a skilled workforce and a growing knowledge base. For example, the area has the highest concentration of climate change and environmental researchers and experts in Europe. Small and micro businesses make up a significant part of the business sector and demonstrate the depth of entrepreneurial spirit.

The economy does face a number of challenges however, in terms of lower than average wages, productivity levels and distance from market.

Its dispersed economic geography, with few, but important, urban centres increases the reliance on critical infrastructure and key services. Overcoming significant transport and logistic issues, as well as planning constraints is vital for businesses to thrive and attract new investment. Rapidly accelerating the roll out of superfast broadband is seen as crucial to future economic success. There is a high dependence on the public sector for employment so there is a very real need for the LEP to address the rebalancing of our economy.

Geography

The LEP encompasses the local authority areas of East Devon, Exeter, Mendip, Mid Devon, North Devon, Plymouth, Sedgemoor, South Hams, South Somerset, Taunton Deane, Teignbridge, Torbay, Torridge, West Devon, West Somerset.