Former deputy Prime Minister Lord Heseltine is to be the keynote speaker at a transport and growth summit on Wednesday March 11.

Leading south Essex businesses, along with political leaders from Thurrock and Southend-on-Sea councils, expressed delight that Lord Heseltine will attend the event.

The summit, which businesses across the region are being encouraged to take part in, will look at investment priorities, transport infrastructure, connectivity and skills.

The potential for a combined authority between Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock Councils will also be discussed.

It is being held at Southend Airport and jointly organised by Thurrock and Southend-on-Sea councils.

Councillor John Kent, Leader of Thurrock Council said: “We are already bringing in £6 billion worth of private investment and millions of public funds into the area, but we believe that by creating a combined authority – not a merger, but a partnership – we will enable the whole south Essex region to help our businesses grow, creating jobs and prosperity along the north bank of the Thames Estuary.”

Councillor Ron Woodley, Leader of Southend Borough Council, said: “We are delighted to be jointly hosting this summit between the private and public sector. Significant international gateways such as London Gateway, Southend Airport and the Port of Tilbury are situated within the collective geography of south Essex. Transport and growth are key issues for us all and for future generations."

Kate Willard from Stobart Group will chair the event and, in addition to Lord Heseltine, contributors include Julian Drury, c2c’s Managing Director; David Burch from the Essex Chambers of Commerce; and the leaders of both councils – Councillor John Kent and Councillor Ron Woodley.

Kate Willard said: “This will be an informative and interactive session where we in the business community can join our voices with local authorities to help drive sustainable economic growth I know that Lord Heseltine will make a significant contribution to our thinking as he has continuously done to the regeneration agenda across the UK throughout his career.”

Registering for the free business event on 11 March from 2pm to 5pm at London Southend Airport can be done by emailing tfurber@thurrock.gov.uk to reserve a place.