THE independent commission set up to look at the Essex economy has met for the first time this week.

Chaired by one of the country’s leading economists – Dr Andrew Sentance CBE, the commission, made up of academics, economists and business leaders are looking at how and where the Essex economy can grow and where investment should be focussed.

The first stage of this work is a ‘call for evidence’ which will see organisations from across the public / private / education sectors invited to send in existing research that could contribute towards the Commission’s understanding of the economic challenges and opportunities facing Essex.

Dr Sentance said: “We know that there are many organisations across the county that have commissioned pieces of work in recent years looking at various aspects of the economy.

“These have covered topics such as market trends, issues such as regulation and land availability, the labour market and skills, and also infrastructure needs.

“Through bringing these pieces of work together this will give us an overall picture of the county.”

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth and Partnerships at Essex County Council, added: “The work that the commission is undertaking will provide us and our partners with real tangible and credible evidence to help us target investment and make the economy even stronger.

“Importantly the commission is completely independent, it’s not aligned to any political party or organisation, but the quality and calibre of the membership will give us real insight that will help us meet our ambitions.”

Responses to the call for evidence should be sent to [email protected] before the 5 August. The first report from the commission will be published in the Autumn.

For more information and to keep up to date with the latest visit www.essexgrowth.co.uk.

ENDS