PHILIP Dunne, MP for the Ludlow, wants an enterprise zone to boost business in south Shropshire.

The MP is urging local councils across the Marches to work with the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership to put forward ambitious plans for a new Enterprise Zone and to seize the economic initiative by identifying businesses on their patch with investment or export potential.

This includes building on the commercial and sector strengths of rural areas.

Ministers want local business and civic leaders to encourage firms with shared interests to stand together and form a stronger commercial proposition.

These new zones, if supported by a strong business case, will enable places to drive growth and jobs creation.

Enterprise Zones bring with them a raft of benefits to businesses including lower taxes, access to superfast broadband and streamlined planning permission to boost local infrastructure.

“These Enterprise Zones have been a big success, helping alleviate the burden of business rates and promote growth and jobs,” said Mr Dunne.

“We have seen them work in cities and now with the opportunity to extend to more rural areas, Shropshire could really stand to benefit.

“I will be encouraging the cabinet of Shropshire Council at our meeting with Shropshire MPs this Friday to make a strong case to help secure an Enterprise Zone boost to our local economy.”