Business leaders have backed plans for Dudley borough’s City Status bid hailing it as a major boost for inward investment.

Dudley Council is planning to submit a bid for City Status as part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The bid will be formally submitted to government in December but today business leaders said they would welcome the opportunity to become a city to make sure the borough remains a “key stop” for businesses.

Although there is no formal financial reward for becoming a city, business leaders believe that the coveted status could make all corners of the borough more attractive for businesses to relocate and people to live in Dudley borough. Councillor Simon Phipps, cabinet member for regeneration and enterprise, said:

"Dudley Borough is rapidly becoming a major destination for businesses keen to take advantage of £1billion worth of regeneration and major improvements to transport links and education.

"City Status will only strengthen that position and show that we are a place to invest in and grow. It will certainly be good for businesses across the borough, from Halesowen in the south right up to Sedgley in the north.”

Bosses at the historic Thomas Dudley Ltd manufacturers in Dudley have also got behind the bid. The family firm has been in business for more than 100 years and thinks the bid could open doors to a more prosperous period for businesses. Boss, Martin Dudley is also chairman of the Dudley Business Champions group which works closely with Dudley Council to ensure businesses continue to be supported. Martin Dudley, owner of the Thomas Dudley and chairman of the Dudley Business Champions group, added:

"Anything that reinforces Dudley’s place on the map has to be welcomed. Businesses have had a really tough two years and City Status would, I am sure, lead to a more prosperous future for many in making the borough a more attractive place to live, work and do business.

The formal bid will be submitted in December with the decision expected next year as part of the national celebrations to mark the Queen's Jubilee.

People can share ideas and get behind the bid by emailing cityinthemaking@dudley.gov.uk.