Ambitious plan launched to improve Shropshire's economy

The economic growth strategy 2017-2021 sets out a new direction for economic growth in Shropshire and defines how, over the coming years, Shropshire Council and its partners will work together to achieve sustainable new growth in the county’s economy.

Building on the varied assets of Shropshire, including its talent, natural and historic assets and successful businesses, the strategy focuses on increasing economic activity and output.

Nic Laurens, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for economic growth, said: “Economic growth is one of the key priorities within the council’s Corporate Plan and we recognise that the council has a significant role to play in supporting the successful and sustainable growth of Shropshire’s economy.

“The final strategy presents the opportunity for the council to be bold, committed and focused in its leadership role and to generate growth for the benefit and prosperity of its businesses and residents over the next five years.

“I thank all who responded to the consultation and look forward to working with all or our partners, businesses and communities.”

Graham Wynn, chair of the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), said: “Shropshire plays a vital part in the wider Marches region and the council’s commitment to maximising economic growth is to be applauded.

“The Marches LEP wholeheartedly supports the prominence given to collaborative working with partner organisations in this strategy. Indeed, our collective track record of delivering schemes which really make a difference to both the people who live and work here, as well as those we wish to attract to the region, is one that we’re all proud of. We look forward to continuing to work with our partners at Shropshire Council to see the county and wider region flourish and strengthen its economic vitality.”

A draft version of the strategy was consulted on for several weeks between early March and the end of April 2017 to give businesses, stakeholders, town and parish councils, statutory bodies, communities and residents, the opportunity to comment and help shape this important milestone document.

A number of town and parish councils took part in the consultation and Shropshire Council will now work with the county’s market towns to find out how they want the economy to grow and to support the visitor economy.

Comments were also received from business leaders, community groups and the voluntary and social sector. All have been carefully considered and have helped to inform the final strategy, which will be launched at a business leaders’ and stakeholders event in September.