Issue - meetings

To consider an updated Economic Development Strategy to cover the period to 2023 and to recommend it to the Council for approval.

RECOMMENDED:

That the Economic Development Strategy 2018-2023, as attached as Appendix 1 to Report Item 8 to the Cabinet, be approved.

Members considered the proposed Economic Development Strategy for 2018-2023, as attached as Appendix 1 to Report Item 8 to the Cabinet.  The Strategy set out a vision and related activities to tackle identified barriers to economic growth under the following 5 themes:

·             Developing a skilled workforce

·             Increasing growth and productivity

·             Developing local infrastructure

·             Facilitating vibrant towns and villages

·             Promoting the unique New Forest offer

The Strategy highlighted the need to balance support for the existing base of 9000 businesses with the encouragement of appropriate new investment into the District. In addition, it recognised that sustainable economic growth must be within the context of the special characteristics of the natural landscapes of the Forest.

RECOMMENDED:

That the Economic Development Strategy 2018-2023, as attached as Appendix 1 to Report Item 8 to the Cabinet, be approved.