Big Interview: Head of LLEP Sue Tilley speaks to BusinessLive

The Head of Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership has outlined work being done around projects and partnerships in a wide-ranging interview.

Sue Tilley described in this week’s BusinessLive Big Interview how the LLEP continues to work with partners towards gaining the best outcome for regional devolution.

Speaking with Leicester Mercury Business Editor Tom Pegden, the Head of LLEP also sets out how work continues on major infrastructure projects – including improvements to Junction 23 of the M1, St Margaret’s Bus Station, and SportPark 4.

Sue also reflects on progress being made on LLEP projects around innovation, SMEs, careers, apprenticeships, skills and more.

She says:

Government set out earlier this year its intention to integrate LEPs into local democratic institutions so that there’s an independent business voice in local authorities.

The exact nature of that remains unclear but could include functions such as growth hubs, careers hubs, skills partnerships and strategic planning. We’ve since been managing budgets and shaping outputs accordingly.

The situation is very uncertain, both regionally and nationally. We are realistic enough to know that our role is changing and that we need to change with it. But, like Government, we recognise that change will not happen overnight.

In the meantime, we will continue providing a voice for business while working closely with all our partners.

Whatever the future holds, we are confident that our partners recognise the value of what we do.