BUSINESSES, the public sector and others interested in the future of the region are invited to a series of regional events being organised by the East of England Regional Assembly (EERA) and the East of England Development Agency (EEDA).

BUSINESSES, the public sector and others interested in the future of the region are invited to a series of regional events being organised by the East of England Regional Assembly (EERA) and the East of England Development Agency (EEDA).

The first half of the event - being staged a four venues around the region - will provide an opportunity to discuss how EEDA is tackling the economic downturn and how it is focussing on supporting local businesses to survive and grow.

The second part of the event is dedicated to the draft East of England Implementation Plan which was published for public consultation on April 8. The draft plan sets out how regional targets for economic growth, housing, employment, skills, the environment and more efficient uses of resources will be delivered.

John Reynolds, chairman of EERA, said: “Anyone with an interest in the future development of their locality should come to one of these events.

“They will provide an opportunity to question EEDA about its activities and future plans and to discuss the key areas where investment is required to drive sustainable economic growth over the next 10 years and beyond.

“Those attending can also contribute to the forward planning of sustainable development in the region and make a real impact on future economic and spatial programmes at the local level.”

Richard Ellis, chairman of EEDA, added: “Planning for the future growth and ensuring the region is best placed to seize the opportunities that will emerge in the upturn is our major priority as a region. Today's economic situation is a challenge for us all but the upturn will come and when it does we will have an economy which is more innovative, greener, more sustainable and more diverse.

“We all need to have confidence and belief in the value of our qualities and assets, such as our strong knowledge-based industries, in order to make this a reality. Working closely as a partnership, we can tackle the challenges facing us such as raising adult skills levels and, during the downturn, making sure our young people leaving school get a foothold on the employment ladder.”

The dates and venues for the four meetings around the region are: April 20, Putteridge Bury Campus, Luton; April 21, Centre Parcs, Elveden, Suffolk; April 28, Homerton College, Cambridge; and April 30, County Hotel, Chelmsford.

Each of the meetings will run from 4pm to 7pm. To register to attend, callSue Houlder at the East of England Regional Assembly on 01284 729421 or email sue.houlder@eera/gov.uk .