3.2 Regions and Prospects

Forming the final part of the determinants of regional development are effective cross-sectoral and intergovernmental partnerships and integrated regional planning. While collaborative approaches can ebb and flow, the South West’s planning and business environments have traditionally featured strong levels of partnership.

Working together for the purpose of prioritising government investment in the region creates a focus for all sides of government and presents a funding rationale based on good evidence. Co-operation within sectors is also a powerful tool with clusters gaining their own momentum and a concentration of knowledge which aids overall business competitiveness. The South West features a strong and united timber sector, dairy industry, creative sector and business unity through the region’s Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

In conclusion, regional development success is not a single champion charging out ahead of the others on a trusty steed. The battle for improving the region is fought on multiple fronts by an army which operates from the same plan. The power is in the team’s interest – not the individual’s interest.

This document aims to sit as a long-term vision for the South West. It works with the South West Development Commission’s 2021-2023three-year action agenda, sub regional planning strategies and other pieces of work. This in itself is a collaboration with multiple stakeholders involved.