Business and regeneration leaders in Bradford are backing Yorkshire's new Regional Development Agency chief to bring new prosperity to the city.

As chief executive of one of nine regional agencies set up by parliament, Martin Havenhand will play a key role in promoting the district into the next millennium.

The Yorkshire and Humber RDA, which will come into effect on April 1, will be responsible for developing and implementing a strategy for the region's social, economic and physical regeneration.

Commenting on his new role, the Sheffield-born former chief executive of Bassetlaw District Council in North Nottinghamshire, said: "This region has much to commend it and we need to build on the tremendous assets it has - its people, its enterprise and its character."

Councillor Dave Green, chairman of Bradford Council's regeneration committee, said: "Decisions affecting the Bradford economy and its regeneration will at last be made at a local level. It will take some time to bed in, but the RDA will be accountable to local people."

The 12-strong RDA team will operate from a permanent base in the region. The exact location has still to be decided but it is believed Bradford is in the running.

Coun Green said: "I understand there has been an effort to attract the RDA to Bradford and the Council will do all it can to support that bid. Any organisation which helps bring jobs to the city is to be welcomed."

Sandy Needham, director of Bradford Chamber of Commerce and Industry, added: "Decision makers in London can get a distorted view of regions like ours. Yorkshire has a great identity and it's a place where people want to work and live. The RDA will promote that."

Mr Havenhand will officially start as chief executive within the next few weeks. The other 12 members of the board will be announced before the end of the year.

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