Dozens of business people attended the launch of the Mayor of Leicester's multi-million pound plan to breath new life into the city economy.
Sir Peter Soulsby formally launched his Economic Action Plan at St Martins House in the city centre yesterday, outlining his vision for jobs and growth.
The plan includes helping create thousands of jobs; supporting six months' work experience schemes, apprenticeships, internships and graduate placements for 800 young people; helping 1,800 businesses grow and a further 800 get off the ground.
Sir Peter hopes to secure £60 million of investment to help with the masterplan.
Maxine Aldred, development manager of the Federation of Small Businesses in Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland, said: "It really is very, very important that the city looks at various initiatives and investment plans that benefit the whole of the city, not just particular areas.
"This has never happened before in Leicester but I really think that, although it is an ambitious plan, it can be delivered."
Martin Peters, chief executive of Leicester Shire Promotions, said: "From the tourism perspective the big thing now is to attract private sector investment.
"We have just come out of an era largely driven by public sector investment. So this is about creating a climate for investment and creating confidence."
As part of its own contribution, he said the council had already agreed £13.479 million of support and approved in principle a further £16.6million.
Sir Peter said: "Leicester offers a fantastic range of attractions, but we can't stand still. I believe the announcements we will be making over the next few weeks will show there are some big things about to happen in this city."
