Council Agrees More Than £100,000 For Growing Lewes District Enterprises

Lewes District Council has agreed to continue its business support programmes, its "Local Enterprise and Apprentice Platform" (LEAP), for a further three years.

On Thursday (September 24), leading councillors in the cabinet claimed that the LEAP had proved a great success.

The said it had, to date, supported and encouraged more than 250 local people who have either a desire to start their own business or to grow their existing enterprises.

Over the next three years, the council believes, LEAP will support up to 650 businesses and entrepreneurs with access to services and programmes extended, creating an economic boost to the region and the opportunity to grow and recruit a local workforce. 

Cllr. James MacCleary, the council's leader who's also response for "regeneration and prosperity", said:

"This is a great platform that has shown tangible and measurable benefits to our home-grown band of entrepreneurs."

"We have allocated just over £100k for the next three years to allow this vital support programme to continue.

"I think it represents a great investment in home-grown talent and businesses and I look forward to seeing the results over the coming months and years." 

He added his belief that the council's role should include providing support, understanding and funding to fledgling business ideas. 

The LEAP business support services including the annual Business Start-up programme will continue to be organised through the Eastbourne & District Enterprise Agency Ltd.