THE new ‘principal engine of growth’ for the Dorset economy is up and running.

Around 200 business leaders, entrepreneurs and politicians attended the launch of the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) at Lulworth Castle.

Chair of the LEP Board, Gordon Page told guests: “The message is that Dorset is the natural place to do business.”

With the abolition of Regional Development Agencies by the Coalition Government, LEPs have been established to promote economic development.

The partnership includes the public sector but is predominantly driven by the private sector.

Ministers said the RDAs were remote, out of touch and bureaucratic.

Mr Page, former chairman of Cobham plc said the priorities of the LEP were to ensure Dorset was competitive, connected, responsive and talented – with an emphasis on raising skill levels and encouraging creativity.

“We look forward to the LEP going from strength to strength from today,” he added.

“This is a real opportunity for businesses to expand and flourish, backed by government investment.”

Initiatives include: n Setting up enterprise zones linked to Bournemouth Airport and Poole and Portland ports n Increasing apprenticeships nSupporting Bournemouth University in developing a science and technology hub n A £38million high speed broadband programme and pushing for improved transport links Mr Page said protecting Dorset’s unique environment was critical.

The LEP board also includes Anthony Woodhouse, managing director of Hall and Woodhouse, boss of Beales Tony Brown, local council leaders from Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and Dorset and Peter Scott, chief executive of the DCCI.

Minister Mark Prisk, by video link, said the government wanted local LEPs to set their own priorities and agenda.

“It’s not a single fix from Whitehall,” he added Bournemouth East MP, Tobias Ellwood, said: “This is a real opportunity for Dorset to look to the future together, rural and urban parts of the economy.

“The LEP will hopefully pioneer a positive approach and vision for where Dorset should go.”

Nigel Hedges, president of the Bournemouth Chamber of Trade and Commerce said the Local Enterprise Partnership was pivotal to a successful local economy and would provide a strong voice “direct to government.”