Shropshire Council is to undertake a countywide survey of its businesses

The delivery of economic growth is one of Shropshire Council’s key priorities, so during July 2019 an in-depth telephone survey will take place to ensure that the council is delivering against the five-year Economic Growth Strategy it launched in 2017.

Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s deputy Leader, and Cabinet member for assets, economic growth and regeneration, said:

“Irrespective of size and sector, the needs of our businesses have changed over the past couple of years, not least in light of Brexit and other economic challenges.

“A recent report by accountancy giant BDO has highlighted that the fastest-growing companies in the county represent eight sectors. Consequently, we want to gain a greater understanding of the strength and diversity of these sectors.

“It is vital that our intelligence remains current and up-to-date to ensure that we can support our existing businesses effectively and attract businesses into the county going forward.”

Questions included in the survey will also look to assess future skills needs, digital connectivity, land and premises requirements, current and potential future regulatory impacts, funding requirements and business support.

Steve added:

“By understanding the key barriers to growth and identifying potential opportunities we can discover how best to unlock these for the benefit of businesses in the county.”

Following a competitive process, the survey will be undertaken by professional company QA Research which provides a bespoke research, insight and evaluation solutions to the public, private and voluntary sectors.

Matt Potts, Shropshire Council’s business growth and investment manager, who commissioned the survey on behalf of the service and other teams who interact on a daily basis with companies, urges any business approached to take part.

Matt said:

“The decision to organise this survey has not been taken lightly. In addition to informing the future plans for economic growth, the findings will provide valuable insight for Shropshire’s statutory and corporate activities, including the Local Plan review and national government calls for evidence and consultations.

“We’d like to thank businesses in advance for their support and involvement.”