Issues and options

This section aims to support sustainable economic growth, foster innovation, and promote a vibrant cultural environment.

These are key elements that we wish to include in our Draft Local Plan economy and culture section:

Economic vision and objectives:

• Define the local authority's vision for economic development and growth.
• Establish key objectives and targets for supporting a resilient and diverse local economy.

Key economic sectors:

• Identify and prioritize key economic sectors for the area.
• Promote the growth of industries that align with local strengths and opportunities.

Employment land and workspace provision:

• Outline policies for the provision of employment land and workspace.
• Address the need for a mix of employment spaces, including industrial, office, and creative workspace.

Support for local businesses:

• Develop policies to support the growth of local businesses, including startups and small enterprises.
• Explore initiatives such as business support programs, grants, and networking opportunities.

Innovation and technology:

• Encourage innovation and the development of technology clusters.
• Support the growth of research and development facilities and partnerships with educational institutions.

Skills and workforce development:

• Address the skills needs of the local economy.
• Support initiatives for workforce development, training, and education.

Town center regeneration:

• Outline policies for the regeneration of town centers.
• Promote mixed-use development, public spaces, and initiatives to attract businesses and visitors.

Tourism and cultural heritage:

• Support policies to enhance tourism, leveraging local cultural and heritage assets.
• Promote the preservation and celebration of cultural heritage.

Creative industries and arts:

• Encourage the growth of creative industries, arts, and cultural enterprises.
• Support initiatives such as cultural events, public art installations, and creative hubs.

Night-time economy:

• Address the needs and opportunities of the night-time economy.
• Develop policies to support a vibrant and safe nighttime environment.

Community facilities and social infrastructure:

• Promote the provision of community facilities, such as libraries, community centers, and sports facilities.
• Support initiatives that enhance social infrastructure and community well-being.

Local supply chains and procurement:

• Encourage the use of local supply chains and procurement to support local businesses.
• Develop policies to promote sustainability and ethical practices in procurement.

Transportation and connectivity:

• Address transportation infrastructure to support economic development.
• Promote connectivity to facilitate the movement of people and goods.

Cultural events and festivals:

• Support cultural events, festivals, and public gatherings.
• Encourage the integration of cultural activities into the local community.

Monitoring and evaluation:

• Outline mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating the success of economic and cultural initiatives.
• Establish regular reviews to adapt strategies based on changing circumstances.

The economy and culture section of a local plan in the UK aims to create a framework that supports economic vitality, innovation, and cultural richness while enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. The specifics may vary based on the characteristics and priorities of each local authority.