New strategy sets out clear ambition to boost Shropshire’s economy and businesses
A new draft Economic Growth Strategy for Shropshire 2017 – 2021, which sets out Shropshire Council’s commitment and ambition to grow the local economy of the county, will be considered by the council’s Cabinet on Wednesday 1 March 2017.
This represents an exciting time for the county. At a time when public sector finances are reducing, there is a real emphasis in Shropshire on working with existing businesses, promoting Shropshire as a great place to do business, and developing opportunities for residents.
The council is committed to working with businesses, and its established Shropshire Business Board and Marches Local Enterprise Partnership are critical partnerships to help ensure that the county prospers.
A successful local business
The strategy has taken into account recent research and feedback, the West Midlands Combined Authority Strategic Economic Plan, and the national economic picture, in particular the ‘modern Industrial Strategy’ for the UK. It is also very closely linked to the Big Conversation and the council’s corporate plan and vision “to make Shropshire a great place to live, learn and work”.
The aim of the strategy is to provide the vision and ambition that will direct the actions that the council will take to achieve increased economic productivity and a prosperous and resilient economy from now onwards.
The approach to delivering this vision and ambition is based on three key objectives: support and grow existing businesses, attract new inward investment, and develop and retain talent and skills.
Specific activities based around these three objectives will be contained within a detailed action plan that will be produced to support the strategy.
A successful local business
Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for business and economy, said:
“Shropshire is widely recognised as a fantastic place in which to live, work and do business. There is, however, a step change needed in Shropshire’s economic productivity. It has significant potential to do more and do it better. We must be ambitious, focused and committed if we are to achieve maximum economic productivity from the assets and opportunities we have here in Shropshire.
“This strategy highlights that we are serious about the significant role we have to play in growing the county’s economy, and offers a much-needed refocus of what is needed to make it a real success.”
On Wednesday 1 March Cabinet will be asked to receive the draft strategy and agree to commence public consultation for six weeks. Feedback will be used to help shape a final strategy.
Mandy Thorn MBE, Chair of Shropshire Business Board, added:
“Shropshire Business Board welcomes this strategy document which underpins our shared vision and ambition for this wonderful county.
“Shropshire businesses are enterprising and innovative, and this draft Economic Growth Strategy demonstrates that Shropshire Council share the aspirations of all of us living and working in Shropshire to improve our county’s economic well-being and deliver jobs and opportunity for all.”
To view the draft strategy please click here.
