Economic development: Innovating for local growth?

A joint Work Foundation and Centre for Local Economic Strategies Event

Date: 11 April, 2012, 08:30 for 09:00 – 11:00

Location: The Work Foundation, 21 Palmer Street, London SW1H 0AD

Speakers:

  • Professor Henry Overman, Director, Spatial Economics Research Centre, LSE
  • Professor David Bailey, Chair of the Regional Studies Association
  • Neil McInroy, Chief Executive, Centre for Local Economic Strategies (Chair)
  • Lizzie Crowley, Researcher, The Work Foundation

Context:

The UK’s cities face a difficult period. The recession has widened disparities between cities, and many parts of the country face high levels of unemployment. Local government must meet this challenge and drive economic growth in local economies.

Yet it does this in the context of reductions in public spending, a shaky national economy and without many of the funding streams it previously relied on. Many of the ‘old’ models of economic development no longer appear viable. The localism agenda may help cities support local growth, but may not be able to deliver the change which is necessary. Where next for local economic development?

Drawing on The Work Foundation’s Cities 2020 programme and the Centre for Local Economic Strategies’ research into economic resilience, this event will examine the future of economic development in the UK. It will address:

  • How should local economic development change?
  • Will localism mean new, innovative economic development practice?
  • What is the role of new governance arrangements such as Elected Mayors
  • How will the new relationships between Local Government and LEPs work?

Who should attend?   Partners with the Work Foundation, relevant government departments, LEPs, Local Authorities as well as senior individuals from the public and private sector with an interest in innovative public policy for growth. CLES/New Start members and partner organisations.

Why should they attend?  To hear from those at the forefront of local policy in economic regeneration and network with like minded individuals who want solutions to the challenges ahead.

To reserve your place on this free event, please email Brhmie Balaram at bbalaram@theworkfoundation.com and include your name, company, job title, email address and telephone number.