Boost for Kent Economy

The Government this week announced that East Kent has won its Regional Growth Fund Bid, totalling £40 million.  The Regional Growth Fund (RGF) is a £1.4bn fund operating across England from 2011 to 2014. It supports projects and programmes that lever private sector investment creating economic growth and sustainable employment. It aims particularly to help those areas and communities currently dependent on the public sector to make the transition to sustainable private sector-led growth and prosperity.

In the House of Commons Local MP for Maidstone and the Weald, Helen Grant, asked the Secretary of State Eric Pickles what he was doing to boost local enterprise in business in Kent.  Mr Pickles responded,

“I am sure my hon. Friend will be delighted with today’s announcement of the regional growth fund expansion in east Kent, including the funding of small and medium-sized enterprises. This supports delivery of critical infrastructure to provide jobs, and at £40 million it is one of the highest awards. I am delighted that the regional growth fund is helping investor technology, and we are seeing the start-up of a local enterprise partnership at the Sandwich site to deal with those questions relating to Pfizer.”

After coming from the House of Commons chamber, Helen said, “I am delighted Kent is seeing such a boost in investment.  Whilst funding is focussed on East Kent the benefits will be felt across the county, and I am sure local businesses in Maidstone and the Weald will welcome the subsequent kick start to the economy.  I will continue to fight for local business and enterprise in Maidstone and the Weald, and in Kent as a whole.”