West Yorkshire named as latest 'Investment Zone' by government

The zone will be focused around universities in Leeds (pictured), Bradford and Huddersfield, the government says

West Yorkshire has been named by the government as a new "Investment Zone" ahead of the Autumn Statement.

The move could create 2,500 jobs over the next five years and unlock £220m of investment, officials claimed.

The new zone would be focused around universities in Leeds, Bradford and Huddersfield, the government said.

Tracy Brabin, West Yorkshire's Mayor, said the investment was "a massive vote of confidence in our top-tier universities and talented graduates".

The county was confirmed as England's third Investment Zone, one of 12 zones across the UK, in an announcement on Monday and is intended to provide tax relief and other business incentives.

In a statement, Chancellor Jeremy Mr Hunt said: "We are changing our country for the long term, driving economic growth across all corners of the UK.

"It will mean thousands more jobs in the exciting industries of the future, backed up by better infrastructure and communities to be proud of."

'Stronger, brighter region'

In response, West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin said: "We know that devolution is working for West Yorkshire and this new investment zone is further recognition of that from the government.

"Home to NHS England, our region's digital and health tech businesses are driving forward innovation and transforming the lives of patients worldwide.

"This investment is a massive vote of confidence in our top-tier universities and talented graduates and will help our mission to build a stronger, brighter region that works for all."

Meanwhile, Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council, said: "Bradford has a celebrated heritage built on innovation and we're excited about the opportunities this investment will bring.

"Bradford will be one of the core locations for investment and the zone will focus on Bradford and West Yorkshire's strengths in health and digital technology, including digitally-enabled manufacturing."

The announcement comes after South Yorkshire was named as the UK's first Investment Zone earlier this year.