A new industry-led partnership has launched to collaboratively promote the businesses in the UK’s Solent region – a globally significant maritime hub.

Solent Partners was introduced on Monday (27 November 2023) to firmly establish a nationally recognised, industry-led partnership to promote the collective prosperity and sustainability of the Solent economy.

Solent Partners has evolved from the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and is a collaborative force incorporating services and initiatives ranging from skills and careers to business support and partnership working opportunities.

“Solent Partners will build on the achievements of the Solent LEP to support the ambitions of our partners and bring about the best possible outcomes for our region’s economic success,” says Rachael Randall, chair of Solent Partners. “We’re proud of what our team has achieved so far, and as Solent Partners we can harness the exciting opportunities that make our region so successful and provide what’s needed to deliver the kind of prosperity, profitability and sustainability that’s possible when energised business leaders come together.

“Solent Partners is in a unique position to collaborate, foster innovation and nurture long-term local economic prosperity. It will continue to work with partners across all sectors to support businesses, develop talent, promote Net Zero, encourage inward investment, and grow the Solent’s sector strengths.

“This innovative collaboration will allow new partnerships to develop across the Solent, add value and make a bigger impact in the region in the coming years.”

Solent Partners says it is committed to working with businesses and partners across the region to deliver shared ambitions, empowering a prosperous and sustainable future and ensuring the region reaches its full potential.

“I look forward to continuing to work with Solent Partners, building on the strong foundations laid by the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership, which have brought enormous benefits across the Solent,” says Councillor Steve Pitt, leader of Portsmouth City Council. “I have no doubt that we will continue to work successfully together on the truly critical task of sustaining confidence among businesses and organisations across the area to promote the collective prosperity and sustainability of our region.”

Councillor Satvir Kaur, leader of Southampton City Council, adds: “Partnership working will be critical to unlocking the significant potential of the Solent Economy, and raising prosperity for all in our region. I’m looking forward to continuing the work with Solent Partners, other local authorities and business leaders.”

Councillor Phil Jordan, Leader of the Isle of Wight Council, comments: “The Isle of Wight continues to support and engage across the Solent with our respective regional partners and is part of the economic powerhouse driving business, regeneration and development throughout our area.  I am pleased that Solent Partners can help to support and deliver our aspirations and achievements in an effective way, building on past projects and successes through the previous Solent LEP organisation.” 

Solent Partners says it has five fundamental priorities that support the aim for the region to become a world-class, innovative, low-carbon economy: connect, advocate, lead, collaborate and deliver.

Main image: Gosport Peninsula

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