NECC examines transforming region into "International Gateway"

The North East Chamber of Commerce is examining connectivity as the key to turning the region into a gateway to the rest of the world.

The NECC is set to hold a series of ?International Gateway? seminars to examine connectivity in the North East with an aim to build current export success.

The discussions, hosted with IPPR, will highlight regional strengths and weaknesses in the North East?s transport infrastructure.

This series of events is part of a research project being run by IPPR in association with the North East Chamber of Commerce to explore the North East?s potential as an international gateway.

NECC Infrastructure Specialist, Mark Stephenson, said: ?This series of discussions with businesses and other organisations has been designed to feed into the research, and explore in depth the strengths and weaknesses of North East connectivity, and how the different modes of transport and communication interact with one another.

?The issue of connectivity is key to stimulating regional economic growth and building on our unsurpassed strengths in exports.?

The discussions follow collaborative work by the NECC and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) which highlighted a shortlist of essential transport priorities.

Ed Cox, Director of IPPR North, said: ?If the North East is to maintain its number one status as the only region with a positive balance of trade then international connectivity is vital.

?Ports, airports and broadband are three of the most critical factors supporting connectivity and these - along with road and rail - will be the focus of our seminar series.

?We’re very keen to hear from businesses about how we develop the infrastructure we need to boost international trade.?

The events will take place across May and early June. Each event will bring together key players from business, academia, transport providers and local and national government to discuss and debate the emerging findings from the research and to consider key priorities.

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