Indian firms considering expansion into Europe should consider Northampton, at the heart of England, as a strong contender to base their operations.
Councillor David Mackintosh, Leader of Northampton Borough Council, took part in a trade mission to India this week, led by The Rt Hon Eric Pickles, UK Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government.
During their visit, a team of delegates visited Kolkata, Kochi and Ahmedabad to find out about regeneration opportunities for construction and infrastructure firms back in the UK.
But Councillor Mackintosh also wanted to highlight the benefits of his home town, Northampton, to Indian executives wishing to tap new markets across Europe.
“Both London and Birmingham, England’s two largest cities, can be reached in an hour from Northampton,” he said.
“Add to that the fact that our town sits at the heart of the country’s road and rail infrastructure, with easy access to a variety of air and sea ports, and it’s easy to see why it provides an ideal base of operations.
“Northampton has an Enterprise Zone economic area which offers tax breaks, relaxed planning regulations and superfast broadband, plus a vibrant business community and local authorities which will support businesses to help.
“Our strategic position and support network are unrivalled in the UK, and I would welcome the opportunity to demonstrate our strengths to any company executives who are interested.”
Northampton is currently undergoing a massive programme of urban regeneration called Northampton Alive, with 18 major projects including new railway and bus stations.
This makes Councillor Mackintosh an ideal ambassador for this trade mission, along with representatives of the UK Government and construction firms.
During their visit to Kolkata, Cllr Mackintosh and Mr Pickles met West Bengal Finance Minister, The Hon Amit Mitra, and Minister of Urban Development, The Hon Firhad Hakim.
In Kochi they met The Hon Chief Minister of Kerala, Oommen Chandy, and other senior representatives of the Kerala Government.
To find out more about the Northampton Alive projects visit www.northampton.gov.uk/northamptonalive email Councillor Mackintosh at cllr.dmackintosh@northampton.gov.uk or follow him on Twitter @davidmackintosh