URL: https://www.fenland.gov.uk/localgov/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=900

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: This Strategic Refresh document has been created to continue the delivery of the Council’s Economic Development Strategy 2012-2031 (EDS) and follows the first Strategic Refresh 2022-25. It sets out how the Council’s Economic Growth Team, other Council departments and public and private partners will continue to work together to support economic growth in Fenland.   This Strategic Refresh also sets out the outputs and outcomes delivered via the first Strategic Refresh.

Content: This Strategic Refresh document has been created to continue the delivery of the Council’s Economic Development Strategy 2012-2031 (EDS) and follows the first Strategic Refresh 2022-25. It sets out how the Council’s Economic Growth Team, other Council departments and public and private partners will continue to work together to support economic growth in Fenland.   This Strategic Refresh also sets out the outputs and outcomes delivered via the first Strategic Refresh. Members considered the Economic Growth Strategic Refresh 2025-28 report presented by Councillor Benney.   Members made comments, asked questions and received responses as follows: ·         Councillor Tierney commented that the portfolio is in safe hands with Councillor Benney and the Economic Growth team and he thanked them for the clear report, but he would like to know what challenges are coming forward and what concerns there are for the future. ·         Councillor Benney responded that there were some missed opportunities arising from Brexit, and the Covid pandemic caused huge financial and employment issues in Fenland. There is now a green strategy, much of which is common sense, but there are good businesses in the area struggling because of taxes placed on them by the green agenda. Furthermore, rises in national insurance will be detrimental, businesses will struggle faced with higher employment costs and taxation. Councillor Benney pointed out that a rise in apprenticeship wages will restrict the number of apprenticeships available as many employers scale back their apprenticeship programmes to save money. Young people are an important part of the Fenland economy, and this will rob them of life skills and the opportunity to get on. Councillor Miscandlon commented that although the issue of wages is problematic it is essential to encourage companies to keep apprenticeships or they will flounder in the future. Having benefitted from an apprenticeship himself, he is a great advocate for them. ·         Councillor Seaton pointed out that transport infrastructure is also important. His portfolio constantly pushes the CPCA and County Council regarding the state of the current infrastructure. Better transport links will aid economic growth in the area; it would encourage new companies into Fenland and allow present ones to expand. A lack of suitable transport infrastructure hinders such progress. ·         Councillor Benney agreed with Councillor Seaton and pointed out that the road network also holds Fenland back, being a long way from main arterial routes. There has been much emphasis by the CPCA on public transport but not enough on the road network which is overlooked.   Proposed by Councillor Benney, seconded by Councillor Mrs French and AGREED to recommend the Economic Growth Strategic Refresh 2025-28 for approval by Full Council.

Date of Decision: November 15, 2024