The Great South West Partnership, which aims to unlock the potential of the region’s green and blue economies, has gained its first Chair.

Karl Tucker is taking on the role to attract investment in the counties of Dorset, Devon, Somerset and Cornwall.

With an extensive background in the food and drink industry, he also currently presides as Chair of Yeo Valley and the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership, and is a member of the Advisory Board for the South West Food Hub.

Speaking on his new position as head of the board, Karl said: “I am delighted to have been formally appointed as Chair.

“We have worked hard since the Government’s Levelling Up white paper in February 2022, which acknowledged the Great South West as a good example of a business-led pan-regional partnership.

“Having turned this acknowledgment into formal recognition and funding is a testament to the effort and commitment shown by all involved in the process.”

The region offers a unique blend of blue and green assets, with strengths in the marine, energy, environmental, technological and agricultural sectors.

This has sparked ambitions for the Partnership to establish the South West as the UK’s ‘Natural Powerhouse’, taking inspiration from the Northern Powerhouse and Midlands Engine.

Karl added: “The Great South West represents a significant opportunity for the region to be heard by central Government and investors within the UK and beyond.

“There are major opportunities to transform our economy, creating new careers and jobs.

“The Great South West has the potential to become the UK’s Natural Powerhouse, helping to deliver on our decarbonisation and net zero targets.

“To unlock these opportunities we need Government investment in our infrastructure, the national grid, roads and rail networks, digital connectivity, housing and workforce development.”

“As the Chair of Great South West I am excited to get on with working with the Government, our partners and stakeholders, in the region and beyond to deliver on this opportunity.”