by business editor Trevor Sturgess

Business has welcomed a new three-county local enterprise partnership but warned it will walk away if it turns into a "talking shop".

The Kent, Essex and East Sussex LEP is designed to boost the economy by backing transport projects such as the third Thames Crossing, promoting fast broadband, boosting skills, supporting rural businesses and reviving coastal towns.

Larger than originally envisaged, it was the first LEP to be given the Government go-ahead and one of only 24 successful bids nationwide.

It was officially launched yesterday in the House of Lords.

Businesses have been worried that it will be council-dominated although the LEP will be "business-led" LEPs are controversial.

In a leaked letter dated September 14, business and enterprise minister Mark Prisk alerted Business Secretary Vince Cable to "the strong concerns of the business community regarding our LEP policy".

But Kent business leaders voiced there support.

Geoff Miles, owner of Maidstone Studios, urged businesses to get involved but added: "If it becomes a talking shop, I would rather have a cup of tea with my mother."

Greg Clark, MP for Tunbridge Wells and Communities and Local Government minister, said it presented an opportunity for real economic empowerment.

The government would not micro-manage the LEP or require "endless" reports.

"It's up to you," he said. "It would set the bar for other LEPs."

While the new LEP will have less funding than the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) which it replaces, it has pledged less bureaucracy and to lever in private sector money.

Paul Carter, Kent County Council leader, backed the larger LEP, saying it would have greater influence. "Size does matter," he said.

He urged the best brains from businesses to get involved.

"I'm really keen that we get representatives from not just big business but small and medium sized enterprises."