All RDAs across England are closing by March 2012
(see transition and closure section).
With our resources reducing steadily, this page has not been recently updated and the information below may not be current.
If in doubt, please contact us directly.
Planning for recovery
The South West economy has made strong
progress in the last decade in improving its productivity relative
to the UK average. However, all areas of the South West are now
feeling the effects of the recession.
Our economic intelligence team produces a
quarterly economics review that details the current position and
future prospects for the region. To view the latest review (along
with previous editions), please visit our Economy section.
A joint response to changing economic
circumstances was published by BERR (Department for Business
Enterprise and Regulatory Reform now BIS - Business Innovation
and Skills), HM Treasury and the South West RDA in autumn 2008.
Download the full document: The South West
of England Economy: A joint response to changing economic
circumstances.
South West Regional Economic Task Group
Chaired by our Regional Minister, Jim Knight
MP, the South West Regional Economic Task Group was set up to help
government and the region’s partners understand the impact of the
economic downturn, and ensure that the South West responds
effectively.
By bringing together key decision makers, the
Task Group has helped to steer the recession response activity
across the region, and provide feedback and advice to government,
including input on the preparation of this year’s Budget. For
example, the Group has developed a ‘Green Economic Recovery’
package as part of its work programme, supporting the region’s
transformation to a low carbon, and resource-efficient economy for
the future.
The South West RDA commissioned some scenarios
based on its own forecasting expertise and the South West's
Regional Accounts and associated economic modelling. Download
the paper: SWRETG 3.1 (ii) SW Recession
Scenarios.
Working with business
The South West RDA invests to improve the productivity of South
West England in relation to the rest of the UK. This means
providing a range of business support services to maximise
opportunities, regardless of the economic climate.
Real help with finance now
The government has introduced a package of
financial measures, as part of Solutions for Business, to provide real help
to firms through the economic downturn. If you have short-term
working capital constraints or are looking to invest to grow your
business these schemes could help you.
For more information, visit the real
help with finance portal or contact Business Link on their
national phone number: 0845 600 9006.