CEDOS provides a forum for Heads of Economic Development in upper tier local authorities throughout England. Membership includes county, city and unitary Councils in non-metropolitan areas. The Society carries out research, develops and disseminates best practice, and publishes reports on key issues for economic development policy and practice. Through its collective expertise, it plays its full part in helping to inform and shape national and regional policies and initiatives.

The current membership includes County Councils and Unitary Authorities which together represent over 47% of the population of England and provide services across over 84% of its land area.

Economic Development and regeneration is a key priority for both the national and local policy agendas. The Government's localism approach, the creation of Local Enterprise Partnerships and the Local Growth White Paper all underline the important role of local authorities in developing their local economies.

CEDOS meets quarterly in London to discuss and share knowledge and experience on key economic development issues. Meetings generally consist of presentations by external experts on subjects of topical interest, round table discussions and presentations by members of the Society.

Kieran McNamara
Assistant Director Economy, East Sussex County Council and CEDOS Chair