Regeneration and economic growth

Supporting local growth

The Government came to office determined to promote strong, sustainable and balanced growth in every part of the country.

The number one priority remains getting the deficit under control. But we also want to promote strong local economies, with thriving businesses and new jobs.

What we are doing

Instead of seeking to engineer growth from Whitehall or through regional agencies, we aim to put power in the hands of local councils and businesses. Rather than seeing public investment as solution in itself, we're focusing on using that support to stimulate private growth - providing a catalyst for investment and encouraging enterprise.

Local Enterprise Partnerships, bringing together business and civic leaders, are now up and running across 99 per cent of the country. In 22 Enterprise Zones, the prospect of business rate discounts and simplified planning is set to attract and encourage a new generation of entrepreneurs.

With new opportunities for local leadership, we are providing significant financial support. The Regional Growth Fund, the Growing Places Fund and the Get Britain Building Fund will provide a boost of £2.3 billion to local economies in the coming years, sustaining tens of thousands of jobs. The Coastal Communities Fund will provide specific and targeted support to towns trying hard to galvanise their economy.

As well as providing immediate and medium-term support, we are putting in place the right conditions to encourage sustainable growth in the long term.