An important week for our regional economy, and it was god timing to share a few thoughts from my 30 years of economic regeneration journey at the Midlands Engine event in Nottingham.

I really welcome the launch of the Midlands Growth Story—an interactive tool for partners, policymakers, and investors. The Growth Story combines data, analysis, and impact stories to showcase the region’s strengths and opportunities.

📊 **Economic Indicators**: Use these to inform decision-making and develop growth strategies.

📈 **Project Pipeline**: Explore the interactive project pipeline to identify high-growth investment opportunities.

💡 **Case Studies**: Identify local assets and collaboration opportunities through detailed case studies.

🏚️ Simultaneously, the government launched its White Paper on Devolution, which has significant implications for Leicester and Leicestershire in 2025. Much of next year will be spent discussing its impact on our City and County. I aim to ensure the voices of businesses, stakeholders, and charities are considered in the final outcome. That's why I called for every stakeholder to look to the bigger prize in devolution and beyond our short term interests. As a long term backer of devolution since the 90s, this is our chance to create a settlement that lasts 50+ years.

💡 Someone joked that my contribution sounded like a Mayoral campaign manifesto! The great thing for me is that I have no 'skin in the game'. As I approach retirement, having worked across all tiers of local authority and now representing the private sector on the Business Board, my only goal is to secure the best possible deal for my home County, free from vested interests. I will listen and learn before setting out a more considered view on the best path forward. The event featured great discussions and networking with regional leaders, all striving for positive outcomes!

👂 Listening and speaking at the Midlands Engine event reminded me of the massive task ahead to help our county and wider region address hashtag#transport, hashtag#skills, hashtag#inclusiveGrowth, hashtag#energysecurity, hashtag#infrastructure, hashtag#investment, hashtag#sustainability, hashtag#innovation, hashtag#productivity, and hashtag#education.
hashtag#transport hashtag#skills hashtag#inclusiveGrowth hashtag#energysecurity hashtag#Infratsructure hashtag#investment hashtag#sustainability hashtag#innovation hashtag#productivity hashtag#Education #