Government Affirms Support for Southwest England Alliance Amidst Nationwide Cutbacks

The government has decided to maintain financial backing for a collaborative effort designed to transform the West of England into a formidable economic force, even as similar projects face termination in other areas.

The alliance known as the Great South West serves as a collective advocate for Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, and Somerset in the UK's political center. It is instrumental in attracting investment and stimulating business expansion not only within the region but also for the broader UK economy.

Stakeholders in the initiative have expressed their approval following an extensive review of regional partnerships across England.

This review led to the government receiving an unprecedented number of submissions from the South West, with representatives from various sectors—industry, education, academia, and local governance—underscoring the region's significance to the nation.

There was initial concern that the Great South West's funding might be discontinued after Chancellor Rachel Reeves' budget announcement in November last year.

Karl Tucker, chair of the Great South West Partnership, stated: "This decision is a resounding validation of the South West's essential contribution to national objectives, encompassing energy security, achieving net zero targets, defense, and advanced manufacturing."

"Thanks to the robust coalition we've established across sectors, the government has acknowledged the distinctive position of our region and the ongoing relevance of the Great South West."

The Great South West is now set to collaborate with government officials to map out future strategies, as indicated.

In February, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner announced that no additional mayoral structures would be introduced in the South West under the initial phase of new devolution plans。

A spokesperson for the partnership emphasized: "This decision underscores the pressing requirement for the Great South West to continue unified efforts to present a cohesive voice to the government and on the national stage."

Councillor Millie Earl, vice chair of the Great South West and leader of BCP Council, has called for "long-term stability" to facilitate future planning, noting, "We must not squander the momentum we have established."

Clive Higgins, CEO and chair of Leonardo UK and a member of the Great South West board, stressed the "importance" of regional leaders' collaboration to highlight the South West's capabilities on a national platform.

"We must persist in promoting the South West as a global pacesetter in defense, advanced engineering, manufacturing, clean energy, aerospace, and numerous other sectors," he added.

The Great South West Partnership will now engage with partners from business, education, and government to ensure the region maintains a "unified and distinct voice" in Westminster.

As these discussions unfold, the partnership will continue to execute a comprehensive program of activities. It is set to host the fourth event in its series at Westminster on March 18, presenting the region's strategic investment opportunities to investors, ministers, and international trade missions.