Epsom and Ewell Council's bid to become a member of a local enterprise partnership has been by Government ministers.

Local enterprise partnerships are a central government initiative to help develop business environments that encourage investment, stimulate a region's economy and identify and promote appropriate projects for funding.

They are a collaboration between local councils, local business, trade organisations and the voluntary sector.

The Council aims to become a member of the Coast to Capital, partnership, which focuses on transforming business and economic performance so the area can compete in an international marketplace.

The Gatwick Diamond will be the council's main way of delivering this - a business-led private and public sector partnership established to take economic performance in the region from 'good' to 'excellent'.