1284 Communications has set out the situation for business with regard to devolution in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR) for the latest edition of Business Network. 

Account Director Amy Orton, a former local government reporter in the region, described how investment in LLR is falling behind that in neighbouring Mayoral authorities. 

A 2-page spread in the magazine - the monthly publication of East Midlands Chamber which is sent to thousands of its members - Amy explained why business leaders are viewing an accelerated devolution as a route rebalancing investment. 

The article translates the long-running and complex policy detail of LLR devo into a clear narrative for a business audience.

It was published alongside Chamber data showing how neighbouring authorities are benefiting from funding settlements linked to combined authority and Mayoral status.

And Amy’s article was accompanied by a first-person summary from Chamber Policy Director Rick Blackmore about the role of Devo within EMC’s Framework for Growth.

Amy writes: “As seen in combined authority areas, with devolved status comes the luxury of Government access for the Elected Mayor.

“It also means regional decision-making powers over issues including transport, skills and employment and infrastructure. It brings direct dialogue with Number 10 and firmer links with Government departments.

“Devolved status is also reflected in funding settlements - and there’s currently a stark difference in investment being allocated to devolved and non-devolved areas. East Midlands Chamber analysis reveals that - compared with devolved areas - LLR is consistently losing out.”

1284 Communications was invited to contribute the article by East Midlands Chamber. 1284 Managing Director George Oliver is a non-executive director of the organisation and sits on its Board, as well as its Governance Committee.

Both George and Amy are former Leicester Mercury journalists.

George said: “Amy’s article shows exactly why clear, audience-focussed narrative is important in complex policy debates, and 1284 was pleased to be able to help tell the story to the region’s business community.”

Meanwhile, Leicestershire Business Voice has invited George to facilitate a panel discussion on devo in LLR during a Business Leaders Supper to take place at Loughborough University this week.

The purpose of the evening is to focus on how regional business can come together and work with regional political leaders to successfully move devolution forward.