Derby stars at Midlands UK Forum for Growth

Major investment opportunities across Derby and Derbyshire have taken centre stage on the opening day of the inaugural Midlands UK Forum for Growth.

Earlier today, Councillor Matthew Holmes, Derby City Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for regeneration, planning and transportation, along with the city council’s chief executive, Paul Simpson, delivered an online presentation, called Investing in Derby - UK Capital for Innovation, which can be viewed below.

Each day has been given a theme. Today centred around growth, while tomorrow will focus on collaboration and the final day will be all about what the future holds.

Today featured a number of investment pitches, including Derby’s impressive portfolio of opportunities, which are all included in a new 26-page online Investment Prospectus.

In Derby’s pitch, Mr Simpson said: “Our authority and partners stand shoulder-to-shoulder behind the ambitions laid out in the Investment Prospectus.

“These are not pipe dreams, they are genuinely transformational schemes to invest in Derby.

Derby and Derbyshire will be represented on the remaining two days of the event.

At Rolls-Royce, we are passionate about inspiring the next generation to achieve their full potential and consider STEM careers.

“I look forward to sharing my thoughts on how we can help to do that in Derby and across the Midlands.”

Also on tomorrow’s schedule is Rachel North, strategic director for communities and place at Derby City Council. She will present a pitch for the 100-acre Infinity Park Derby enterprise zone.

And, finally, on Thursday, Councillor Barry Lewis, leader of Derbyshire County Council and cabinet member for strategic leadership, culture and tourism, will be part of a key panel discussion called Revitalising the Visitor Economy, promoting one of the county's key sectors.

To find out more about the Midlands UK Forum for Growth and the timetable for the remaining two days visit midlandsukforumforgrowth.co.uk.