Posted on Friday 3rd February 2012
Gloucester is one of three Councils in the south west bidding to be chosen as the location for the first ‘green bank’ in the country.
Bristol and Torbay make up the region’s challenge out of a total of 32 towns and cities across the UK which have submitted bids.
The £3bn project is aimed at driving investment in new green technologies and business.
The new bank will assist in unlocking significant new private investment into green infrastructure projects, supported by a team of professionals who understand the new technologies involved.
The Gloucester bid – produced by the economic development team at the City Council – has received fantastic support. Local business, public sector partners and the Local Enterprise Agency have all pledged support.
City Council Leader, Paul James, commented: “ The competition is very strong but Gloucester offers all of the right credentials to host this project. We are a vibrant, action-packed city with a track record of environmental innovation, an expanding financial sector and strong manufacturing credentials.
“ At a time of economic recession we can demonstrate that we have managed to attract £500 million worth of inward investment. I believe we have made a very strong case.”
And he added: “The opportunity for Gloucester to bid to be the base for the new Green Investment Bank was originally ‘flagged up’ by City MP, Richard Graham, who is supporting the council’s application.”
Chair of Gloucestershire’s Local Enterprise Partnership Diane Savory said: “The prospect of a Green Investment Bank is really exciting and we feel Gloucester brings the right mix of specialist expertise, location and value for money to host it. In our view it would be the best place for the bank to prosper and we are really pleased to be supporting the council’s proposal.”
A decision from the Government is expected next month
Posted on Friday 3rd February 2012