Business leaders in Halton are being sought to help shape the future economy of the borough and wider Liverpool City Region.

The City Region - of which Halton is one of six member councils - has established a new business and enterprise board to enable the private sector to work more closely with the people who shape economic policy in the sub region. 

It follows a decision earlier this year to integrate the work of the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), which provides a voice for the city region’s business community, into the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (CA). An appointments process for members of the new board has now begun.

The CA is also on the lookout for recognised business leaders in three key sectors - advanced manufacturing, health and life sciences and the digital and creative industries - to volunteer their expertise and time as members of new 'cluster boards'.

Halton Council leader Mike Wharton, who is also portfolio holder for economic development and business at the city region, said: "These cluster boards will play a key part in shaping the future of our economy, helping to drive investment and growth in the manufacturing, health and life sciences and digital and creative sectors.

“It is vital that business leaders continue the good work that has been done through the LEP and provide a link between industry and the Combined Authority.”

The business and enterprise board and cluster boards will typically be composed of 14 members broadly representing the LCR but with the flexibility to co-opt members to plug gaps in areas of expertise, local geography or to ensure greater diversity.

A stakeholder convention will also be established to enable existing business networks, clusters, and the wider business base across LCR to come together periodically to learn about research and intelligence undertaken within LCR and discuss business needs and future business engagement activities.

Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: "Our area is fortunate to be home to a thriving innovation economy, boasting world-leading clusters in infectious disease control, advanced manufacturing, and AI - and I want to help those businesses unleash their full potential."