Economic Development and Tourism

Economic Development and Tourism is highlighted as a priority in the Council’s Corporate Plan under the objective of  ‘Helping businesses to realise their potential’. 

The Economic Development and Tourism Service delivers this priority through the ‘Prosperous Communities Strategy’ and ‘Prosperous Communities Theme Business Plan’.

Prosperous Communities Strategy

The Prosperous Communities strategy provides an overview of the Council’s approach to supporting and developing the economy from 2009-2012, and replaces the former ‘economic development strategy’. It sets out how the Council will deliver its long-term vision that  Richmondshire will be a place which enjoys economic prosperity and where everyone has access to life long learning”.

The Prosperous Communities strategy identifies seven strategic outcomes for the next four years and identifies how these will be achieved.  A range of key targets has been set that will measure success against these Strategic Outcomes:

a) There will be more secure, better paid employment in all sectors including tourism and non seasonal jobs

b) There will be appropriate supply and development of employment land in the District to increase GDP/output

c) There will be support to business sustainability and growth, creating jobs to strengthen the economy.

d) There will be an increase in tourism earnings

e) We will support business growth by generating a culture of job creation resulting in a vibrant job market

f) Vocational curriculum developments will support economic growth, and reflect employer needs

g) We will ensure adult learning offer makes best use of resources and meets the needs of diverse communities.

The Strategy recognises that whilst the economic downturn is compounding some existing weaknesses and threats in the economy; there are also strengths and opportunities to build on.

This Strategy exists to help businesses recover from the economic slowdown; attract/retain skilled employers; reduce barriers to employment; exploit growth sectors and adapt to new consumer demands and technological innovations to improve our GDP and GVA.

Ultimately the evidence of our progress will be demonstrated in improved ‘rankings’ for the District in key local, sub-regional, regional and national indicators and a more vibrant, sustainable local economy.

This Strategy is also influenced by Regional and Sub Regional Strategic economic development strategies, particularly Yorkshire Forwards’ Regional Economic Strategy (RES) and the York and North Yorkshire Sub Regional Investment Plan (SRIP).

For further information on setting up a business within Richmondshire please see the Business section of our website.  This also includes information on our business premises including Innovate Business Centre.

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