Somerset business leaders delivered compelling message on getting Westminster to help unlock the area’s investment and growth potential at an event in Taunton last week.
Senior business leaders from across Somerset joined an event hosted by the Great South West Pan-Regional Partnership and Somerset Chamber of Commerce, to discuss key issues vital to unlocking investment and growth across the region and delivering for the UK.
Focused on raising awareness of key business challenges with Westminster, the Roadshow explored critical issues including skills shortages, transportation, and social mobility. Business leaders emphasised the need for Government support in tackling these shared challenges, to ensure the continued growth and prosperity of Somerset and the wider South West region. 
David Crew, Managing Director of Somerset Chamber of Commerce, said: “It was incredibly useful to have so many business leaders at the event to hear first-hand about the issues and challenges affecting them.
“The South West is a great place to do business and it’s important we all work together to ensure our businesses have the opportunities and investment they deserve to thrive and grow.”
The Roadshow featured a panel on mobilising the South West, with panellists including Karl Tucker, Clive Higgins, CEO of Leonardo UK, Cllr Bill Revans, Leader of Somerset Council, and other senior business leaders.
Karl Tucker, Chair of the Great South West Partnership, commented: “The Somerset Roadshow was an important moment for bringing together the region’s most influential voices.
“It provided a vital platform for discussing the specific challenges we face, from skills shortages to transportation issues, and the opportunities that can propel our economy forward.
“Our focus remains on ensuring that the South West’s challenges and opportunities are heard and acted upon at the national level, so we can secure the investment and support needed to drive growth in our region.”
The event follows the Great South West Partnership’s recent sold-out annual conference, which brought together over 500 senior business leaders, investors, industry experts, newly elected MPs, and political figures including Sarah Jones MP, Minister of State for Industry, to spotlight the region’s critical role in driving UK economic growth.
The Partnership also launched its new Independent Economic Review at the event, setting out a proposed policy roadmap to deepen collaboration between the region and Government, and ensure the South West’s opportunity to play a pivotal role in the new Government’s economic growth strategy is realised.
Download the Independent Economic Review Summary: https://greatsouthwest.co.uk/independent-economic-review-2024
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