As 2019 draws to a close, find out how we have helped drive inclusive growth across Hertfordshire to support our people, places and businesses.

This includes the development of a Local Industrial Strategy endorsed by stakeholders and which sets out a roadmap for future growth; our sold out Annual Conference at GSK showcasing Hertfordshire’s thriving, internationally-significant life sciences sector; and the vital projects we have brought to fruition to boost jobs and skills, accelerate business growth, and improve infrastructure across the county.

Watch our impact video:

Take a look at some of the LEP's investments by district.

2020 will be a landmark year for Hertfordshire LEP as we celebrate our 10th birthday. Since our formation, we have secured three significant Growth Deals and leveraged private sector buy-in to create thousands of new homes and jobs. We are entrusted with managing over £309m of public funds and overseeing the investment of EU funding, and work in partnership with businesses and the public sector to deliver value-for-money economic growth. 

Now as the UK embarks on a new future, our investment in low carbon growth, pioneering industries, ground-breaking research, broadband infrastructure, skills development for our key sectors, and the provision of post-Brexit business support creates even more opportunities for future shared prosperity. 

The conclusion of the General Election marks a decidedly new chapter for the UK as the country gears up to leave the EU on 31st January. As ever, Hertfordshire LEP will ensure the voice of business is heard in Government and I look forward to working closely with our new and returning MPs to continue to deliver real and positive change within the county.

In my national role as Chair of the LEP Network, I am getting great feedback from our key stakeholders about the value and potential of LEPs and the impact we can have in supporting businesses through Brexit in collaboration with organisations like the CBI, FSB, British Chambers of Commerce and the Local Government Association. It is a really exciting time for LEPs - one of opportunity - and as a community we are determined to play our part in the coming months. 

From everyone at the LEP, I wish you a joyful Christmas and happy New Year and thank you for your continued support.

Mark Bretton, Chair, Hertfordshire LEP and the LEP Network