by Tim Wilson, Chairman of Hertfordshire Prosperity, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hertfordshire and EEDA Board Member.

Hertfordshire Prosperity works closely with EEDA, the Regional Economic Development Agency for the East of England. In 2004, EEDA produced its third economic development strategy, "A Shared Vision". This identifies 8 regional economic development goals and the regional partnerships that will deliver them. As the sub-regional economic development partnership, Hertfordshire Prosperity now has the task of interpreting EEDA's goals and objectives in the context of Hertfordshire's economy. The broad objective of this is to deliver sustainable economic development in the county in partnership with other agencies and organisations across the private, public and voluntary sectors.

The period 2000 to 2005, was one of great change locally, regionally, nationally and globally and the next five years will see even more change. The Government's Growth Area proposals and plans to expand both Stansted and Luton Airports will present new challenges, but also new opportunities to grow business activity. The growth of "low cost" economies in the Far East already affect the role of the UK in the world economy and emphasise the need to develop the knowledge, skills and innovation of the UK and Hertfordshire's workforce. In order to sustain competitive advantage in this global economy, ways must be found of ensuring that all Hertfordshire's workforce have the education and skills to enable them to benefit from the county's prosperity.

Hertfordshire Prosperity is well placed to respond to these opportunities and challenges and will work closely with EEDA, other regional, sub-regional and local partners to ensure that the Hertfordshire economy continues to grow in a sustainable manner.