Great South West receives renewed Government backing
The Government has renewed its backing for The Great South West Partnership, following an extensive national consultation on Pan-Regional Partnerships, which saw more submissions from the South West than any other English region.
The Partnership exists to provide a unified voice for Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset and plays a pivotal role in securing investment, driving business growth, and ensuring the region’s nationally critical sectors in clean energy, defence, food security, and advanced manufacturing are recognised in Westminster.
Karl Tucker, Chair of the Great South West Partnership, said: “This announcement is a clear endorsement of the South West’s vital role in delivering national priorities – from energy security and net zero, to defence and advanced manufacturing. Thanks to the powerful coalition we have built across business, education, and local government, the Government has recognised the unique case for our region and the continued importance of the Great South West. We will now work with Ministers and officials to determine the next steps, and continue delivering impact for the region and the UK economy.”
Councillor Millie Earl, Vice Chair of the Great South West and Leader of BCP Council, said: “This decision is vital for continuing our work, but we need long-term certainty so we can plan for the future. We cannot afford to lose the momentum we’ve built through the Great South West Partnership.”
Regional leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating at scale to ensure the South West retains a strong, coordinated voice into Government.
Dan Pritchard, director of Tech South West, said: "The Great South West has a vital role to play in ensuring the regional economy receives the investment, recognition and policy decisions it needs to thrive. At Tech South West, we are pleased the Government understands the importance of this work, and we look forward to continuing to collaborate with The Great South West to deliver positive change across the ecosystem."
Sally Basker, CEO of Exeter Science Park, said: “The Great South West is a vital force in driving investment and innovation across our region. At Exeter Science Park, we see first-hand the importance of collaboration in supporting high-growth businesses, and developing the cutting-edge technologies that will shape the UK’s future. We should continue pushing forward to ensure our region’s voice is heard loud and clear and our opportunities are realised by Government.”
Professor Richard Davies, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Plymouth said: “The Great South West has helped bring together business, education, and Government to create real economic impact for our businesses and communities, as well as delivering for the wider UK economy. Our world-class research institutions and innovation clusters will continue to work closely with industry to push forward the South West’s ambitions.”
Clive Higgins, CEO and Chair of Leonardo UK and Great South West Board Member, said: “We must continue to champion the South West as a global leader in defence, advanced engineering, manufacturing, clean energy, aerospace and so much more. It’s critical that the region’s leaders work together across business, academia and local government to ensure we continue to showcase the South West on the national stage, and play our part in delivering economic growth.”
