There was a focus on how to get the best out of these large projects for local communities, such as increasing skills, jobs and funding.
Councillor Richard Rout, Suffolk County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for finance and environment, said:
“National infrastructure projects are complex and controversial, and Suffolk is one of the most experienced authorities, living through 18 past, current and future projects.
“As a result, we’re delighted to have been recognised as a Centre of Excellence, and able to share our knowledge and experience with colleagues from across the country.
“Local communities are always at the heart of these ventures, so it’s important that this was at the core of today’s agenda. We also heard about the latest national policies, as well as practical advice on managing engagement with developers, and how to resource these huge schemes.”
Local Government Minister, Lee Rowley, said:
“We are determined to level up communities, spread opportunity and drive economic growth across the country. For us to meet our goals, it is vital we have the right infrastructure in place now and for the future.
“That is why we have set out reforms to the planning system for major infrastructure, so it is more resilient and can deliver projects faster, better and greener.
“Councils play a crucial role in shaping projects so they work in local areas and support the ambitions of their communities. This is fundamental for us to deliver the energy, transport and other infrastructure we need.”
The council’s Centre of Excellence was established thanks to the Government’s Innovation and Capacity Fund providing £54,000.
As a result, it has created a collaborative network across local authorities across the East, to share good practice and knowledge.
A programme of monthly seminars has culminated with this conference, increasing the skills and expertise of local authority officers and politicians across the eastern region, to deal with these complicated projects.
