About This Project
In 2022 Shared intelligence was commissioned by the LGA to undertake two separate projects relating to economic development, firstly looking to support Local authorities in integrating Local enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) and secondly at reviewing the future role and skills requirement of economic development teams.
Following the announcement in the Levelling Up white paper and subsequent ministerial letter in March 2022 that set out pathways for LEP integration into (mayoral) combined authorities or institutions with devolved powers, the LGA, through Shared Intelligence helped support local authorities to navigate integration. The project focused on capturing the opportunities, challenges and lessons learnt through a series of interviews and workshops with both currently integrating areas as well as accountable authorities to LEPs.
Through identifying the challenges, opportunities, best practice, gaps in skills and the provision of training within economic development, the research produced a report with a set of nine recommendations. These were aimed at economic development services, elected members, and national organisations. Some examples include exploring joint working across neighbouring council ED services, proactive engagement from members to ensure services are fully aligned with the administration’s objectives, and national organisations producing a clear career pathway for new and existing economic development role.
Supporting the integration of Local Enterprise Partnerships | Local Government Association