“We want to make the city centre as vibrant and successful as it can be, by ensuring that businesses are encouraged to invest there. “It’s a challenge in other areas of the city as well, to ensure that there is that same great mix that makes each community a place where people want to live, work and play. “Our detailed plan looks to do all of that and we are challenging ourselves to implement it by setting out what will constitute success or not. That way the plan, and council, are accountable.” Three key figures will measure that success, and they are committed to paper in black and white in that Economic Growth Strategy. The number of growing business and inward investors supported will be 100 or more per year; the number of new jobs created in supported businesses will be greater than 500. And the number of new jobs and learning opportunities created in regeneration schemes with council funding will be 200 or more.
While other factors will play a part, Cllr James is keen the ambitious targets are met to ensure the opportunities Gloucester offers its residents – and residents of the future – are met. “We need to make sure that Gloucester’s regeneration and economic development creates opportunities for all residents,” he said. “Our workforce must also be sufficiently skilled and adaptable to meet the needs of tomorrow’s business. “The opportunities for business and residents in Gloucester are plentiful and the council will do all it can to ensure that strong economic growth complements our ambitious aims” l
May 2019 | www. punchline-gloucester .com | 81
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