Hi my name is Errol Hemans and I am currently in the process of submitting a 3 year PHD research proposal to investigate the role of Local Economic Partnerships (LEPs) in the UK as a means of coordinating local economic development, skills coordination and inward investment efforts in the city/county.
This research will be designed to investigate the importance of the recent changes in central and local government policies and the creation of the Local Economic Partnerships.
I would welcome your comments in helping to shape this piece of research and have enclosed some of the key points which I would welcome your views at this early stage of development, in relation to:
• In the role of coordinator what are some of the potential barriers which may impact on your role in championing the support your LEP coordinating local economic development.
• Does anyone have a copy of their baseline information/ results which have been complied for your area?
• Has your partnership agreed KPI as yet or in the process to completing or gaining approval which you don’t mind sharing
• Do you feel anything need to change in the current approach LEP’s are taking
• What are the key characteristics which the LEP/UK needs to apply to attract, secure and sustain skills coordination/ development and inward investment over the next five years.
• Do you think that LEP’s will be required in the future to have standard common measureable outcomes which all LEP’s will have to Comply with?
• Are there any shortfalls, barriers or blockages with the current arrangements or future proposals which could be enhanced to improve the relationship and effectiveness between LEP’s, Local authorities and the central government, what would they be, or possible areas for development?
• Are you aware of any other or similar research which has in the past or is currently underway at the moment, if so what are they • If not, are there any areas which you feel could be strengthen in the above proposal to make it of benefits yes/no if yes what are they?
• Could you please state if you would like to be kept informed of development of this piece of research in the future yes/no?
• Is there anyone to whom you feel I would benefits from contacting to discuss this proposal, if so please state their name and contact details.
I thank you in anticipation for your response and look forward to hearing from you shortly.