MEP Visit Could Boost Dunstable's Economy

MEP for the East of England, Vicky Ford has been shown just what a difference EU funding has made to parts of Dunstable.

The former Conservative Party spokesman on Economic and Monetary affairs in the European Parliament was taken to see RWDI Anemos, an international wind engineering company based in the Lawrence Way Industrial Estate in the town, which has already benefited from funding.

Success story Anemos has grown from five to 30 people since its inception and has increased its revenues by an average of 35 per cent every year.

Parts of Dunstable and Houghton Regis have been designated an EU Assisted Area, which means that they can apply for special grants and funding to encourage new businesses and help existing businesses to expand. But at the moment, the future of some EU grants is uncertain.

Prior to the creation of Central Bedfordshire Council, South Bedfordshire District Council and Luton Borough Council had been very effective in supporting businesses applying for this funding - and over the past 12 years have helped to secure around £10 million for the area's businesses which has resulted in the creation of nearly 2,500 jobs and the safeguarding of many others.

The Assisted Area designation will expire in 2013, and now the EU is looking at how future aid is distributed and to which areas would benefit. They will be consulting with government representatives and MEPs on their plans in the New Year.

Councillor Ken Matthews, Executive Member for Strategic Planning and Economic Development, said: "Central Bedfordshire Council has been working hard to ensure the future economic vitality of all Central Bedfordshire and while we are fortunate to live in a relatively affluent area of the country, there are still certain pockets that need a little bit more help.

"We hope we have shown that this funding is crucial to support businesses to thrive in the Dunstable and Houghton Regis area, creating jobs and opportunities for all."

Vicky Ford said: "RWDI Anemos is an example of a world leading business that is growing, despite the economic climate throughout the UK and Europe.

"I learnt how skills and cutting edge technology have enabled them to benefit from orders in fast growing parts of the world, bringing jobs and contracts to Central Bedfordshire."

Vicky Ford also visited Central Bedfordshire College to look at the facilities and services on offer to young graduates.

Commenting after the visit Bob Shore, Vice Principal of Central Bedfordshire College, said; "Central Bedfordshire College welcomed the opportunity to meet with Vicky Ford MEP to show how it enhances the life opportunities of young people and adults and helps the council to meet both community regeneration and the development of training for the industrial base.

"The College particularly welcomed the opportunity to show how European Social funding has been used to meet the needs of NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) young people, and how they were successful in establishing an 86% progression into work or further education, which was the highest nationally."

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