Buckinghamshire County Council wants the government to create two  local enterprise partnerships (LEPs) dedicated to the Thames Valley region, it has emerged today.

The council has submitted an expression of interest to form a ‘Thames Valley Enterprise Forum’ to take over housing, planning, and regeneration powers from the South East Development Agency.

It would combine a Thames Valley-Buckinghamshire and a Thames Valley-Berkshire LEP, with each being chaired by an elected business leader.

According to Buckinghamshire’s proposals, the LEPs would also work with other LEPs, in particular Oxfordshire, but also those in Hertfordshire, West London and the Milton Keynes area.

Martin Tett, cabinet member for planning and environment at Buckinghamshire County Council, said: “We asked Buckinghamshire businesses what they needed to grow jobs and profits. They told us that their biggest requirement was a strong voice for enterprise within the Thames Valley which would ensure that the Government realised the importance of investing in the success of the region.

“They also want a strong linkage to local government to ensure delivery of key infrastructure for growth and with education and vocational skill providers, to ensure they have the skills businesses need for success.”

An invitation has been given to local businesses, District Councils and education and skills providers to participate in the new LEP.

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