Huge cash boost for our businesses (From Thurrock Gazette)

Huge cash boost for our businesses

3:00pm Thursday 25th October 2012 in News

A MULTI-million pound boost is on the cards for businesses in Thurrock.

The borough and north Kent’s Thames Gateway Innovation Growth and Enterprise scheme is in line for a £20million package of funding for investment and new jobs, it was announced Friday.

It is one of 130 schemes nationally to receive cash from the Government’s £2.4billion Regional Growth Fund, and will be able to offer low-interest loans to businesses investing in new services which will create long-term job opportunities.

Thurrock Council’s Labour leader John Kent welcomed the “exciting” news, saying it will “revitalise” the area’s economy.

He said: “Alongside Thurrock’s already exciting regeneration schemes, this fund will help unlock economic potential with our businesses and help revitalise Thurrock’s economy.

“We look forward to working with our partners across the River Thames in delivering the programme. This is excellent news for businesses across Thurrock, businesses with ideas and ambitions to innovate and grow.”

The scheme is expected to be up and running in April next year, and funding will be available throughout Thurrock, Dartford, Gravesham, Medway and Swale.

Rodney Chambers, leader of Medway Council, said: “We look forward to working with colleagues in Thurrock, to help as many local businesses as possible benefit from this funding.”