Telford ranks high for job creation

The town has been rated third in the country for private sector employment growth, with an increase of 2,400 new jobs created between 2011 and 2012.

Local business leaders have said the results are not a surprise due to the amount of investment currently being put into the town.

In a report by Centre for Cities, Telford ranks just behind Aldershot,which created 6,700 and Peterborough, which created 3,900

Telford is one of only two place in the West Midlands to feature in the top 10, the other being Stoke.

Richard Sheehan, chief executive of Shropshire Chamber of Commerce, said: "Obviously this is very good news.

"This is testament to the early action taken around the recession, people from the private sector and public sector all came together to pull in a common direction to support the creation of jobs.

"From our perspective it is not a surprise. We've seen through our survey work the postivity around employment intentions and action."

Mr Sheehan said that part of the reason for the increase in jobs was the number of businesses who are working to export their products, creating expansion and new jobs.

He said: "Add to that the investment in Southwater and the Town Centre, investment by existing businesses and new companies moving into the area again increases job.

"It is an exciting time and testament to the work going from all parties."

Councillor Bill McClements, cabinet member for finance and enterprise, said: "This is great news for Telford and reflects our growing economy and our success as a business winning and business supporting council that is proactively encouraging inward investment to create more jobs and raise people's expectations.

"A key part of this is supporting existing businesses and working with them to help them realise their expansion plans."