Issue - decisions
Staffordshire Rural Economic Strategy
21/04/2022 - Staffordshire Rural Economic Strategy
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“There is already an economic strategy for the whole county, which includes a focus on urban areas, so this part is specifically about how we deliver benefits to rural communities.
The continuing economic growth of Staffordshire rests in part on making sure that there is a collective plan for these towns and villages and that the diverse range of businesses within them are able to make the most of funding and investment opportunities as they come along.
Having consulted with businesses, groups and organisations, as well as local councils, we think this plan is in good shape, but it’s not set in stone and we still want people to contribute to the final version.”
Staffordshire’s rural economy has a good balance of traditional land industries such as farming and forestry, as well as sectors such as manufacturing, construction, services, food production and tourism.
This strength is underpinned by excellent mainstream and specialist universities and colleges and there is a skilled, well-educated workforce ready to go.
The challenge is to agree a clear way forward so that we can follow a common plan in the coming years to remove the obstacles preventing further progress”.
Cllr Philip White, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills |
Reasons for the Decision – To consider the Consultation Draft of the Council’s Rural Economic Strategy.
Decision – (a) That the Consultation Draft of the Rural Economic Strategy be approved.
(b) That it be agreed that a 4-week public consultation be conducted, seeking views from stakeholders, businesses, and residents on the draft Rural Economic Strategy.
(c) That the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy & Skills take the draft Rural Economic Strategy to the next available Prosperous Overview & Scrutiny Committee for consideration and input.
(d) That the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy & Skills and Director for Economy, Infrastructure & Skills be authorised to agree changes and finalise the Rural Economic Strategy based on feedback received from the public consultation, Prosperous Overview & Scrutiny Committee and in response to Government policy announcements including the Levelling Up White Paper.
(e) That, working with those Cabinet Members with associated responsibilities, the Director for Economy, Infrastructure & Skills be authorised to progress the development of supporting delivery plans, working with our partners as appropriate.
