The Council’s Corporate Strategy 2020-25 was adopted in January 2020 and outlined the Council’s key corporate priorities and objectives. A key priority is to grow our economy. The report sought approval to adopt an Economic Development Strategy 2021-2025, which will complement and underpin the Corporate Strategy.

The Economic Development Strategy provides greater detail on how we will grow the economy, combined with other priorities to protect our environment, develop our communities, improve our housing, and deliver an effective & efficient council.

After a full discussion, Cllr Hossack MOVED and Cllr Parker SECONDED the recommendations in the report. A vote was taken and it was RESOLVED.

Members are asked to:

R1. Adopt the Economic Development Strategy as set out in Appendix A.

R2. Approve that delegated authority be given to the Corporate Director of Planning and Economy, in consultation with the Chair of Policy, Resources and Economic Development Committee, to make minor artwork and formatting changes to the Economic Development Strategy in advance of publication.

Reasons for Recommendation

The Economic Development Strategy 2021-2025 is critical to the delivery of the Corporate Strategy 2020-2025.

A vote was taken on Standing Orders and it was UNANIMOUSLY AGREED to extend the meeting for half an hour.