Extra Powers To Create Jobs In Sunderland New proposals announced today could see Sunderland win extra powers to create jobs, boost skills and increase investment. The city is one of a number invited to bid for more freedom and flexibility under the second wave of the Government�s �city deals� programme. Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and Cities Minister Greg Clark announced today that Sunderland is eligible to compete for a deal that would see Government hand over powers in return for signing up to a series of promises. The first wave saw deals struck with England�s eight largest cities � including Newcastle � in July. Today�s announcement is aimed at the next 14 largest cities and the next six with the highest population growth between 2001 to 2010. Sunderland City Council leader Paul Watson said: �A City Deal for Sunderland has the potential to give a major boost to our economy and that of the wider area. �We�re looking at unlocking more potential growth in manufacturing and advanced engineering in Sunderland and the wider region. �We want to work more closely with the Government to address the supply of land, transportation, skills and the pace of development. �Our proposals will build on the priorities set out in the city�s economic master-plan and also reflect broader North East Local Enterprise Partnership priorities.� Greg Clark said: �For Britain to prosper we need Sunderland and the North East to prosper. �Every British town and city is unique � in its history, strengths, industries and character. �For too long governments treated them as if they were all the same, making them conform to a Whitehall template. �City Deals put Sunderland and the North East in the driving seat. It can seize the initiative and show what it needs to prosper and grow, even if it�s new and different. �If it�s in the interest of Sunderland and the national interest, we�ll strike a deal and make it happen.� Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg added: �I want cities to come up with ambitious and innovative proposals to help them make changes that will be felt by everyone across their region.� |
