Leader of Manchester City Council Sir Richard Leese has joined guests at a Carillion-sponsored event for the Manchester International Festival (MIF) to give a keynote speech on public private partnerships and delivering economic growth.

Speaking at the Glass House in Festival Square, Sir Richard also launched a panel discussion on growth, closing the skills gap and job creation. As one of the Government-nominated Core Cities, with greater regional and economic autonomy, this is seen as an area of key importance.

Launched in 2007 and held biennially, MIF is described as the world's first festival of original, new work and special events. It runs between July 4 and July 21 and has established an international following.

Carillion has a strong presence in the region and offers a range of capabilities with public sector partners. It is a joint venture partner with Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council providing a range of services and significant local investment, and it is a partner with Rochdale MBC delivering new and refurbished schools in the Borough.

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Having just been selected as one of three preferred bidders on the £500 million Manchester Airport Group's Capital Delivery Framework programme for construction services, Carillion's regional partnership is also set to strengthen.

Carillion has also recently announced it has been appointed by the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA) as one of three key partners on a pioneering pilot called "Get me Toasty" to help tackle fuel poverty by installing free energy saving home improvements for up to 3,000 vulnerable households.

A key focus will also be on job creation, training and working with SMEs under a local delivery model.

Sir Richard Leese said: "The work of Core Cities and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority mean that we really can be the masters of our own economic fortunes. But to drive home these advantages and ensure that we use them to create jobs and raise living standards and prosperity for all it is vital that collaboration and partnership between the public and private sector are taken to a higher level.

"I was therefore delighted to accept this invitation from Carillion to take part in the panel discussion."

(CD/MH)