West Somerset Economic Development Strategy
Following extensive consultation, a new economic blueprint for West Somerset was adopted by the council in Spring 2009. It sets out priorities and actions for boosting the local economy.
The strategy has identified a number of priorities and actions that will deliver activity to help businesses now, but also put into place programmes of work that will help to lay the foundations for a stronger economic future. There are ambitious plans to regenerate Minehead, improve the infrastructure for enterprise and roll out better communications in the area through next generation broadband.
A priority is to establish a Business Forum for the district that can be reactive and proactive in helping businesses in these difficult times, and to promote a culture of enterprise. We will also try to provide training development opportunities for young people.
Recognising the importance of adding value to our tourism product by improving marketing and promotion, as well as generating new activities for our tourists to enjoy, will be fundamental to the growth of the tourism sector.
The strategy’s priorities and actions will be delivered by the council working in partnership with a variety of public and private sector organisations. Funding will come from the £1.84m Working Neighbourhoods Fund and other funding streams.
It is an exciting time for West Somerset. To find out more contact Corinne Matthews, Economic Regeneration Officer, West Somerset Council by emailing cmatthews@westsomerset.gov.uk