"I have strong ties right across this region and am looking forward to working closely with our authorities to get the best for what is becoming one of the most significant regions of the country."
England’s Economic Heartland has elected two local leaders to oversee its development and support over the next two years.
The leader of Central Bedfordshire Council, Cllr Adam Zerny, has been appointed as Chair, and the leader of Buckinghamshire Council, Cllr Steven Broadbent, as Vice-Chair.
It follows the end of the Oxfordshire County Council leader Cllr Liz Leffman’s two-year tenure as Chair.
Cllr Zerny said: “I’m delighted to be elected Chair of England’s Economic Heartland at what is an incredibly exciting time for our region. The Chancellor has publicly highlighted the huge economic potential of our region, and has cited the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor as a cross-governmental priority. We have internationally significant developments on the way such as Universal Studios, East West Rail, proposals for three new towns, expansion of London Luton Airport and just beyond our boundaries, Heathrow and Stansted.
“All these projects offer huge opportunities for EEH to support its members, and ensure infrastructure such as East West Rail becomes a catalyst for improved transport connectivity. I would like to thank Liz for her superb leadership over the last two years during which EEH has significantly strengthened its cross-regional working, convening powers, analytical capabilities and expertise. I’m very pleased DfT recognises EEH’s importance to realising the region’s potential and is providing longer-term funding which will enable this vital work to continue into the future.
"I have strong ties right across this region and am looking forward to working closely with our authorities to get the best for what is becoming one of the most significant regions of the country."
Cllr Liz Leffman added: “It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of England’s Economic Heartland over the last two years. I am proud of how we have supported the region through what has been a period of significant change locally, regionally and nationally. As the only democratically-led regional body within the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor, I believe EEH has a vital role in helping to realise our economic,social and environmental ambitions for the region. I wish Adam and Steve the best of luck and look forward to working with them in the years to come.”
