A report setting out the strategy that the Council will use in response to the Covid-19 pandemic to support business sectors and economic activity within the area was discussed and recommended at a Scrutiny meeting.
Various sources of data for the UK and Wales have been used to predict worst case scenarios of how the current challenges with the pandemic will affect economic activity. Therefore, the Council has scoped out a number of initiatives to support businesses and influence the economic recovery work:
• A targeted program of Manufacturing tech advice, investment and building skills
• A Digital skills program across all sectors
• Supply chain support, along with new and improved business premises
• Specific support for growth companies and R&D in BG
• Accessing initiatives for 18-24 post-education work related training
• Build the Foundational Economy with local procurement
• Widen accessibility through innovative/sustainable transport solutions
• Enable more start-ups especially town centre with an on-line presence from the beginning
• Progress with significant longer term projects as future facing anchors for investment into BG
Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council’s Executive Member For Regeneration & Economic Development Cllr Dai Davies Said:
“The Covid pandemic has had a major impact on the economy and businesses and the next few months will present further challenges but we must plan for the future. The Council has reshaped some of the initiatives it is taking forward to support business and employment within the area. Businesses have managed to trade through lockdown, however like many other areas, turnover has been lower than other areas of the UK. We have used data to predict, plan and scope out what the Council can do to not only support the recovery phase but to build up economic resilience and help businesses to adapt. We are encouraging businesses to remain open. If you require business support and advice, please contact our Business and Innovations Team.”
Business and Innovation Team Contact Details:
E: Business@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk
T: 01495 355700
The full report can be found by clicking on the following link:
http://democracy.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/documents/s5837/Report.pdf?LLL=0