David Rutley MP and Christine Gaskell, Chair of the Cheshire & Warrington Enterprise Partnership (LEP), met to discuss the life sciences strategy for north east Cheshire and opportunities to promote Macclesfield’s rich silk heritage.
The meeting gave David the opportunity to discuss local priorities with the LEP, which helps determine economic priorities, and helps drive economic growth and job creation across Cheshire. The LEP aims to make Cheshire & Warrington the best place to do business in the UK.
Encouraging investment in life sciences and attracting new business to the Bioscience Hub at Alderley Park continue to be important priorities. David and Christine discussed development of strategic plans to create a sustainable future for life sciences in our area and how the Alderley Park Task Force can be further supported.
David also highlighted the need to regenerate the town centre and ensure that the whole town vision comes alive. Particular areas of focus for regeneration include the Market Place and the Silk Heritage Quarter around Park Green. David took Christine to the Silk Museum and the Heritage Centre to highlight Macclesfield’s potential for tourism. This need for wider regeneration of the town centre will be of greater importance as the Wilson Bowden scheme progresses.
Christine Gaskell, Chair of the Cheshire and Warrington Enterprise Partnership, said, “We have worked with a large number of partners, including Make It Macclesfield to compile the growth strategy for Cheshire and Warrington.
“We want to capitalise on our diverse economy and deliver new jobs, new homes and greater prosperity for all our residents. Life sciences development and manufacturing growth will be at the heart of this strategy, so Macclesfield and north east Cheshire will be instrumental in delivering our aspirations.”
David said, “Meeting with Christine was a great opportunity for me to showcase Macclesfield’s needs and priorities for investment to the Local Enterprise Partnership. Life sciences make a significant contribution to our local, regional and national economy. I am pleased that the LEP is working to support the sector in Macclesfield. I also welcome moves to look at how town centre regeneration can be supported. The LEP’s involvement is good news for Macclesfield and I look forward to continuing to work closely with them.”