CHESHIRE East, Cheshire West and Warrington borough councils have formed a joint Economic Prosperity Board in order to work together to create the climate for economic growth in the county and sub-region.

The board will co-ordinate local authority activities and combine resources both human and financial as necessary in order to support economic growth and the activities of Cheshire & Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP).

Cllr Michael Jones, leader of Cheshire East Council, said: "I am delighted to be announcing this important launch and proud to be taking on the responsibility of being its first chairman.

"Let us be clear, this board is not about rhetoric - it is about results: delivering high-quality jobs and significant, long-term investment across Cheshire and Warrington.

"That is what motivates my colleagues and I. There has been some great progress in the region, with projects such as HS2 rail hub proposals for the North West taking exciting shape. Now we want to help drive further investment growth and job creation across the region.

"This is not just about single regeneration projects, it is also about raising our sights to become both a magnet and an engine for new investment and innovative industries and technology. Top quality jobs in top quality businesses.

"Our message is strong and clear: 'We are open for business - what can we do to help?'"

The Economic Prosperity Board provides a platform for us to work together to realise that ambition'.

Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, Mike Jones said: "Working together is an essential component of driving economic growth in the region and ensuring that our collective voice is heard by the decision makers at Whitehall."

Christine Gaskell, chairman of the Cheshire & Warrington Enterprise Partnership, said

"The local authorities and the LEP have ambitious plans to grow the Cheshire and Warrington economy by nearly £15 billion and we are excited by what we can achieve by working together through the Economic Prosperity Board."