Non-statutory bodies set up by local authorities with representatives from the local authority and businesses to promote economic development in their areas. LEPs were responsible for Enterprise Zones (EZs).

LEPs replaced Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) and assumed many responsibilities of the former RDAs. The government approved the first tranche of LEPs in 2010.

Government support for LEPs was withdrawn in 2024 and LEP core funding ceased in the financial year 2023-24. LEP functions transferred to upper tier local authorities, unless they were already being delivered by a combined authority, or a devolution deal had been agreed for the area covering those functions. For more information, see DHLUC: Guidance for Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) and local and combined authorities: integration of LEP functions into local democratic institutions.