The CLA has said Government allocations from the national growth pot must benefit all sections of the economy.

The organisation said it welcomed the news that Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) will now have more money to benefit and grow the economy.

CLA President Henry Robinson said: “It is crucial that significant funding is targeted towards rural areas so the countryside can enjoy the support and economic growth experienced elsewhere – all sections of the economy must benefit from these allocations. “There will be many smaller rural businesses waiting for this funding so they can establish, grow and increase their competiveness. They should not be disadvantaged by having to compete with larger urban-centric businesses for what will always be a restricted funding pot.

“LEPs can act as a major dynamic for rural economic growth but this will only happen if they work closely with rural businesses and stakeholders who have the necessary experience to help them focus this money on areas and sectors where it is most needed and where the gain in economic delivery will be most beneficial.”