CBI speaks to south west MPs on the importance of regional cooperation

The CBI provided an update to south west MPs on the emerging transport priorities for the region. Speaking at the all-party parliamentary group (APPG) of Great South West MPs, it was an opportunity to reassert our members asks and urge the regions politicians and stakeholders to do more to work together.

Our members are clear that transport infrastructure and connectivity is essential to keep the engine of the south west economy going. And whilst the region has a strong economic record to be proud of, we need to consider how we can build upon this and overcome the challenges of low productivity, to make the region an even more attractive destination for business.

Delivering resilient roads

One of the biggest concerns that arose from our members was regarding the A303, and the urgent need to ensure the project is delivered. Following a recent report on transport infrastructure in the south west from the Commons Public Accounts Committee, concerns were raised about the funding guarantees to deliver the project. This meeting provided a platform to reaffirm the strong business need in delivering the A303 upgrades and the resilience it will bring to the overall road network in the south west.

The CBI has been clear that any further delay on delivering these schemes – or indeed questioning their funding – will be of detriment to the south west. In addition to this, we were pleased to see the M5, and resilience for that motorway feature amongst the wider proposals from the sub-national transport bodies (STBs).

Attracting the right talent

The lack of effective public transport in the region was also a high priority amongst our members. MPs were told about the challenges this brought linked to skills, and particularly young people. With the number of under 25s now holding driving licences down considerably over the past two decades, this has presented a challenge to businesses in the region.

It has a considerable impact on the ability to attract talent, and particularly for businesses in more rural parts of the region. This is especially true for some high growth businesses who aren’t able to attract graduates to work for them, due to the lack of reliable public transport options.

This not only limits options for young people in this region, it also limits the ability of employers to choose the right talent for the right roles in their business. We already know the working age population is higher than the national average, so as a region, we need to do all that we can to retain and attract young talent to the south west.

Speaking with one voice

CBI members in the south west have continued to voice concerns that the region is not speaking with one voice, and the two STBs need to do more to show they are working together, think strategically for the whole south west about transport priorities.

Alongside MPs, representatives from the STBs were also present at the meeting. The CBI took the opportunity to reassert our desire to see much more strategic cooperation to deliver benefits for the whole region.

Next steps

We need ambition from leaders in our region, and the CBI will continue to speak on behalf of our members to ensure the south west speaks with one voice.

The CBI are continuing to work with members to define our transport priorities for the south west. If you would like any further information on this, please contact James Sloan, Regional Senior Policy Advisor.