Lucy Frazer MP discusses business growth with Cambridge Research Park chief executives
Culture secretary Lucy Frazer discussed business growth with chief executives of firms at Cambridge Research Park in Waterbeach.
The Conservative MP for South East Cambridgeshire met with seven business leaders representing sectors including life sciences, telecoms and manufacturing at the event hosted with Royal London Asset Management.
The company is looking to expand its commercial offer on the site, where it owns much of the office space.
The round table discussion, covering trade, employment and skills, also covered key local issues, including the upgrade of the A10, for which the MP has been campaigning. Infrastructure spending on the project was recently confirmed by the Prime Minister.
The opportunities presented by the development of Waterbeach new town were also discussed at the meeting on October 20, which followed a similar event at Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely, in June.
Ms Frazer said they are designed to allow small and medium sized (SME) businesses to hear about government support available - including capital allowances, tax relief, business rates relief and energy subsidies - while helping her learn how she can offer assistance and learning about the concerns of local businesses.
Practical help given in the past has included writing to a minister about a key issue on a company's behalf and connecting firms with local education and skills providers.
The MP said: "SMEs in my constituency make up a significant proportion of local business activity, driving economic growth in our region.
"It is vital that I, as the local MP, meet with the leaders of these businesses to understand their biggest opportunities and challenges, and how I can best support them.
"At the round table, we had businesses from the life sciences, manufacturing and digital technology, which have been identified as three of the five 'key growth areas' for this government, and I am determined to help them succeed.”
Will Hawking, senior asset manager at Royal London Asset Management, said: “It was truly inspiring to explore the synergy between government initiatives and business collaboration to tackle the most pressing challenges facing the Cambridge Research Park.
“From fierce competition for top talent to improving infrastructure and park accessibility, to enhancing sustainability with solar and onsite power generation, Royal London Asset Management is fully committed to this dynamic ecosystem.
“The future of Cambridge Research Park is not merely a vision; it's a vital cornerstone for us as forward-thinking investors.”