I strongly believe that no other city can boast such a persuasive case for being the location of the Green Investment Bank as Bristol has put forward in its business case to Government.
With our reputation as a European Green Capital, and the presence of HQs of organisations such as the Soil Association, Environment Agency, Hargreaves Lansdown and Triodos Bank, we are the ideal location for the Bank.
The Bristol region has a thriving environmental technologies sector and this has the potential to grow further bringing new jobs and investment if the Bank was located here in the city.
Our business case has rightly focused on our highly-skilled workforce, close proximity to London and access to international markets.
Competitive property prices and living conditions compared to the capital, with strong financial credentials, a fast-growing low carbon sector and extensive professional and education support networks are also fundamental to Bristol’s bid.
The City Council has in recent weeks shown that we’re leading the way on our green energy agenda. We’re establishing a citywide energy services company to spearhead renewable energy and energy efficiency projects worth up to £140m and helping to create up 1,000 jobs.
Plus last week we announced we were looking for companies to build two wind turbines at Avonmouth – the first local authority in the country to have its own windfarm.
The Bank coming to Bristol would put us even more firmly on the map as the green capital, and reinforce our position as one of the best placed cities to drive econocmic growth in the years ahead.
Cllr Barbara Janke is leader of Bristol City Council.
Bristol Business News is proud to support Bristol's bid for the Green Investment Bank. http://www.gibbristol.co.uk/
