Trio of West Midlands councils create new economic growth zone

A trio of West Midlands councils have united to bring forward plans for a economic growth zone known as the Central Edge. City of Wolverhampton Council, Staffordshire County Council and South Staffordshire Council have agreed to unlock 16.4m sq ft of prime innovation development land that could see a combined £582m in GVA and the creation of 14,700 jobs. The enterprise zone will focus on delivering the space for occupiers operating in advanced manufacturing, innovation-led research and development, and green technologies. Spanning the border between Wolverhampton and South Staffordshire, the Central Edge area will connect key assets at the Springfield Campus with the University of Wolverhampton Science Park and further north to i54 business park (pictured), Indurent’s site at Junction 13 of the M6 and Logic 54, which has an outline consent for more than 1.7m sq ft of industrial development. Chris Burden, cabinet member for city development, jobs and skills at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “Our vision for growth in green innovation and advanced manufacturing encompasses the multitude and breadth of opportunities across this new economic growth zone.” Martin Murray, deputy leader and cabinet member for economy and skills at Staffordshire County Council, said: “Growing the economy and creating good jobs for local people is a key priority for the new leadership and we are committed to working with partners to deliver real benefits for businesses and residents.” Image: City of Wolverhampton Council