Solihull business leaders share local challenges with West Midlands mayor candidate

Key figures from the Solihull business community were given the opportunity to share the challenges they are facing with the Labour Party candidate for the 2024 West Midlands mayoral election.

Richard Parker will be running against Conservative mayor Andy Street, who has served in the position since it was created in 2017, in the May election.

The roundtable, which took place at Shakespeare Martineau’s Solihull hub, provided an opportunity for Mr Parker to engage with the local business community.

In attendance at the session were Dipika Mistry, Family Law legal director at Shakespeare Martineau, and members of the Solihull Chamber of Commerce executive committee, including President Eileen Schofield, Tony Elvin, Susie Ankrett, Kevin Johns and Kim Hulse.

The focus of the discussion centred around the challenges facing Solihull businesses, touching upon crucial issues such as transport and connectivity.

Mr Parker also took the opportunity to articulate his vision and priorities for the West Midlands, emphasising a commitment to improving skills, creating employment opportunities, and fostering overall growth.

Dipika said: “Solihull’s thriving business community is a testament to the dynamic spirit and resilience that defines our town. The diverse range of enterprises, from innovative startups to established corporations, contributes to a vibrant economic landscape that continues to flourish.

“This roundtable exchange allowed for an open dialogue, with key figures from our business community outlining their challenges and advocating for streamlined processes to boost local economic growth.”

Pictured (L-R): Richard Parker; Dipika Mistry; Tony Elvin; Eileen Schofield; Keith Johns; Kim Hulse; and Susie Ankrett