Minutes:
The Overview and Scrutiny Officer, Diane Close referred Members to the recent prominent articles and news stories relating to the remit of the Economy and Enterprise Overview and Scrutiny Committee (for copy see file of minutes). The articles included: Ministers told to get a “reality check” after hailing bumper job figures for the North East; a unique Auckland Castle apprenticeship academy set to plug skills gap; applications were sought for £2million LEADER programme to boost the rural economy of the North Pennine Dales; and the North East Economy having received a multi-million boost from national tourism project.
The Chairman noted a recent newspaper article had shown there were more business start-ups within one London postcode area than all of Yorkshire put together and felt this was something that should be addressed by Ministers.
Councillor J Armstrong noted the LEADER programme and asked if more information as regards the areas that could bid for funding be given to Members. The Portfolio Holder for Assets, Strategic Housing and Rural Issues, Councillor E Tomlinson noted that there was funding for the North Pennine Dales and a lesser amount in connection with the coast, however, agreed that it was important for Members to be able to understand the geography, to be informed in terms of the potential to bid for funding. Councillor J Clare agreed, noting he had discovered, somewhat surprisingly, of the potential for bidding for funding in respect of his division and noted it was worth finding out. The Chairman agreed that information in terms of the LEADER programme geography be forwarded to Members.
Resolved:
That the presentation be noted.