A BUSINESS boss in Hampshire will lead a partnership aiming to build a low-carbon economy in the Solent.

Stewart Dunn, chief executive of Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, has been appointed chairman of Future Solent as it looks to steer companies and organisations towards sustainable technologies and business practices.

Since its launch three years ago Future Solent has helped to create more than 130 jobs in the low-carbon sector, has attracted £5.3 million in private investment, and has coordinated grant funding which has seen 14 companies receive more than £1.1 million.

Mr Dunn, who is taking over from outgoing chairman Jimmy Chestnutt, said: "I am keen to strengthen our role in helping organisations make the connection they need to go or stay green.

"That means further development of our clean tech clusters by which we link companies with universities and other sources of help.

"The cluster approach is a great way to help like-minded organisations work together to reduce their carbon footprint through energy efficiency and innovation.

"I pay tribute to the work that Jimmy has done up to now in helping to build these connection and ensure the Solent region is recognised for its sustainability credentials."

Board members of Future Solent include representatives from IBM, Southern Water, Sustrans, Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, Bouygues UK, SSE, and the universities of Southampton and Portsmouth.

Grant funding to eligible companies is distributed on behalf of Future Solent by partner Eastleigh Borough Council.

Mr Chestnutt said: "We have made substantial progress on our ambition to put sustainability at the heart of the Solent region's economic success, but of course much still needs to be done.

"I wish Stewart and the whole Future Solent team well as they continue to grow our low-carbon economy."

For more information visit www.futuresolent.org.uk.