Shropshire Business Board seeks people’s views on draft economic growth strategy

The Shropshire Business Board, made up of committed volunteers from the county’s private businesses and organisations such as the Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Small Businesses, is seeking views from local people about the future of the county’s economy as part of the process for developing a new Economic Growth Strategy. 

This strategy, which will set out the economic challenges and opportunities in Shropshire, is being developed in partnership with a whole range of organisations including the private, public, community and voluntary sectors.  Once finished, it will determine how resources are used to ensure that Shropshire’s economy is sustainable, and can expand and thrive up until 2026. 

People can give their views by completing the online survey or going into their local library or customer service point where someone will be able to help them to complete it.  The deadline for responses is Monday 10 September 2012. 

Mandy Thorn, Chair of the Shropshire Business Board, said:

“The ultimate aim of this strategy is to improve the economic competitiveness of Shropshire and, to that end, we are determined to increase employment and wealth opportunities for all and improve the ability of businesses to respond to changes in external market forces.” 

Mike Owen, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for economic growth and prosperity, said:

“It is important that the strategy reflects the views of the people of Shropshire, if we are to produce a working document that can be delivered by us all working together.” 

The final draft for publication will go before the Business Board in autumn for approval (incorporating any feedback from Shropshire Council’s Cabinet at their October 2012 meeting).  Feedback from this consultation will inform the final draft of the strategy due for publication in October.