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WNDC champions economic growth

WNDC’s board has awarded £1 million to Northamptonshire Enterprise Ltd (NEL) to support economic development across Northamptonshire in 2008/09. This will be seen through a number of activities identified by NEL which will additionally meet the aims of the Strategic Northamptonshire Economic Action Plan (SNEAP) and WNDC’s Corporate Plan. WNDC outlines its commercial targets within its Corporate Plan and has a responsibility to deliver a number of jobs alongside sustainable growth.

SNEAP specifies the delivery of 100,000 new jobs in Northamptonshire between 2001 and 2021 and identifies a number of public sector driven projects, which will be able to assist in the attainment of this target. The funding granted by WNDC ensures capital projects focus on increasing the number and quality of jobs, such as commercial site and premises growth, are kickstarted, managed and achieved.

Furthermore, the recent report by The Work Foundation emphasises that Northampton has the potential to thrive in today’s changing economic climate. It shows that between 1998 and 2006 there has been an increase of 38% in knowledge based employment in the town and Northampton is continuing to expand its private sector.

Mike Hayes, Chief Executive of WNDC, said:
“Northampton’s location is one of its strongest assets. Alongside this, its current status in the Government’s growth agenda means that millions of pounds of extra private and public investment are being directed here. WNDC is working hard on projects whilst there remains real opportunity for us and our partners to increase productivity, making sure that Northampton’s economic position strengthens further.”

David Wright, Chief Executive of NEL, said:
“We are delighted to have secured this money from WNDC and we are confident that in partnership we can continue to help develop the Northamptonshire economy and help it grow. This investment will play a major role in helping to deliver high quality employment opportunities for the area and in developing Northamptonshire as the Best place in England to do business.”

Ref: WNDC124

Media enquiries: Keredy Stott 01604 597627 keredy.stott@wndc.org.uk