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News

South Dorset Bids for Public Sector Relocation

Poole, Bournemouth , Purbeck and Weymouth & Portland Councils have launched a joint campaign aimed at highlighting the attractions of the South Coast to the Government which is looking to relocate Civic Service Departments out to the regions.

With superb lifestyle opportunities, a wealth of internationally known businesses and excellent road, train and airport infrastructure links, the bid is centred on selling the big attractions of the Dorset sub-region.

Representatives from each of the local authorities started the ball rolling by meeting with the area’s MPs at Westminster Hall in London yesterday to discuss ways of raising the South Coast’s profile.

At a productive meeting, the MPs pledged to do all that they could to support the bid. The next step is for further research to be undertaken to identify likely prospects and for direct contact to be made with individual departments and agencies to better understand their requirements and present this area’s case.

Cllr Angela Manton, Cabinet Member for Strengthing Our Economy, Bournemouth Borough Council, said: "We are responding to the Lyons Review and the decision by Government to proceed with the relocation of up to 20,000 staff over the next few years. We are aware that this is a challenge in view of the competition from other locations however we think that this area may be of interest in view of the range of attractive sites at affordable rents/prices, our proximity to the Capital and the region’s stunning lifestyle opportunities."

Cllr Ron Parker, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for the Local Economy, Borough of Poole said: "Poole, Bournemouth and the wider Dorset sub-region present real opportunities to Government departments and agencies that need to relocate staff. The combination of superb development opportunities at very competitive rents and prices, the area’s closeness to London and unrivalled quality of life make this area an excellent choice. This campaign is about raising the profile of this potential; I am delighted that the local MPs are prepared to support it"

Peter Wheelhouse, Economic Development Manager, Strategic Planning Services, Borough of Poole, tel 01202 633032