Launch of the Centre for Spatial Economic Research

Published	14 January 2008

Communities and Local Government - with BERR and the Welsh Assembly Government - have entered into a partnership with the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) to launch a new Centre for Spatial Economic Research. The Centre will further our understanding of why some places prosper whilst other don't. Research will focus on why there are disparities in economic growth at all spatial levels including regional, sub-region, local and neighbourhood.

The Sub-National Review on Economic Development and Regeneration (SNR) set out the importance of local, sub-regional and regional tiers in driving economic performance. We are moving forward in implementing the SNR and will be launching a major consultation shortly on specific elements, including the greater role local authorities will play in delivering growth and prosperity.

Local Government Minister John Healey said:

"The Government is leading a major drive to ensure that every region and local area shares in rising national prosperity, by tackling deprivation and boosting local action on jobs, skills, investment and growth.

"This new centre will improve our understanding of local economic performance and provide a strong evidence base to help us to unlock that potential for growth, prosperity and opportunity in every local community."

Please see the ESRC website for further details: www.esrc.ac.uk/ESRCInfoCentre/index_press.aspx (external link).