Decision details

Martin Kelly, Director of Economic Development, Lancashire County Council presented a report (circulated) which provided the LEP Board with an update on East-West Connectivity – An Economic Study. 

It was noted that the study had been commissioned through Transport for Lancashire on behalf of the LEP, in conjunction with partners in North and West Yorkshire.  The purpose of the analysis was to provide an independent economic review of the potential economic benefits that might arise from enhanced connectivity between Lancashire and North and West Yorkshire, with a view of developing a strategic economic narrative to support the case for potential investment and intervention in road/rail based connectivity linking these three functional economies.

Resolved:  The LEP Board:

(i)  Noted the contents of the report and its contribution to the refresh of the LEP's Strategic Economic Plan.

(ii)  Noted the robust and compelling case that the independent study by Cushman & Wakefield makes for enhanced East-West connectivity to realise the full economic potential of the Central Trans-Pennine Corridor and its role in delivering the long-term growth ambitions of the wider Northern Powerhouse.

(iii)  Noted that the study is used as a first stage evidence base to promote the case for improved connectivity with Transport for North (TfN) and other key stakeholders, and that it is to be shared with Transport for the North and the shadow Lancashire Combined Authority; and

(iv)  Requested that the Chair of Transport for Lancashire provides further updates to the Board on progress in influencing the road and rail investment priorities of Transport for the North, and on the LEP's further joint case-making with partners in North and West Yorkshire.