Devolution deal is an opportunity East Yorkshire ‘must take’, says business leader

The managing director of a business which has been at the heart of development and investment into Hull and the East Riding for more than 25 years says a devolution deal is an opportunity the region ‘must take’, or face being ‘forgotten’ in the future.

David Garness, managing director of the Garness Group, says the recent Government announcement for a Mayoral Combined Authority could mark the start of ‘exciting times’ for the region.

And, in issuing a clear message of his own support for the proposals, he has encouraged all to play their part during an eight-week public consultation, which opened on 2 January.

David said: “As someone who has run a business which is heavily involved in the development of the region for more than two decades, I have seen how we have long required a collective approach when it comes to prosperity, progress and inward investment.

“People have often said we are the ‘forgotten region’, the place at the end of the line which never gets Government support and funding. Well now the Government is holding out its hand to lift us up and onto a level playing field with others. It is the opportunity we must take.”

In announcing the plans in its Autumn Statement, the Government highlighted growth opportunities in Hull and the East Riding in manufacturing, chemicals, low carbon technologies, health technologies, pharmaceuticals and healthcare, food and drink, ports and logistics, construction, digital and creative industries and tourism and culture.

By agreeing to become a Mayoral Combined Authority, Hull and the East Riding will benefit from a pledged £400m investment of funding over 30 years.

This includes up to £15m in 2024/25 to support transport, flood and coastal erosion programmes, and £5m in 2024/25 to support local economic growth priorities, including any further expansion of Siemens Gamesa at Alexandra Dock in Hull. Significantly there is also the commitment to rail electrification between Hull and Sheffield, and Hull and Leeds.

David added: “The figures being talked about in terms of investment to drive growth and deliver local projects are attractive. We must realise now that Hull and the East Riding is already under serious threat of being left behind as other areas with Mayoral Combined Authorities are being prioritised for devolution and funding allocations.

“We are the only area in Yorkshire, and one a few in the north of England, without such status. If we don’t go down this route we, in my opinion, will become invisible to those controlling the purse strings in Government, and to those in the boardrooms of big businesses looking where next to invest.”

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

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