Tory grandee hails Runcorn's efforts in nurturing businesses of the future

The Heath Business and Technical Park, in Runcorn, reflects the UK economy of the future, said shadow business secretary Kenneth Clarke.

During a visit to the former ICI site, he met tenants and site owner SOG, and also took part in a round-table discussion with local business leaders.

Former Chancellor Mr Clarke said: "The businesses I have seen are the kinds of businesses I think are going to be the economy of the next few decades."

The park is currently home to more than 185 organisations and 2,000 jobs, and SOG aims to expand to add another 1,000 jobs within five years.

Kenneth Clarke (right) at The Heath in Runcorn, with (L to R) Progressive Solutions' Gary Brookshaw and Ian Knox, Charles Taylor and Simon Lewis of RJ Lewis.

Mr Clarke added: "This is the future. You have to look to have new business.

"The speed of change we have got accustomed to in recent years is steadily getting faster. We have got to grow a business-friendly climate in which this kind of business can grow."

SOG chief executive Dr Peter Cook said: "We were delighted to offer Mr Clarke the opportunity to witness the developments taking place."

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