Frequently Asked Questions
Why do we need an Economic Strategy for the County?
This strategy will provide a focus for the county in terms of our long term plans, and will help to co-ordinate partnership efforts and maximise resources to support our economy and deliver our ambitions.
How have the proposed priority themes been identified?
To support the development of this strategy we have held a series of interviews and discussions with our key partners across the county to set out our priorities. This work also builds on the previous economic strategies of the Strategic Economic Plan (SEP) and the Local Industrial Strategy (LIS), acknowledging the strengths and challenges of the economy.
How does this link to the development of a countywide Spatial Development Planning Strategy?
It is not possible to produce a robust economic strategy without considering land use issues.
The proposals outlined within the Economic Strategy Engagement document align with the commitments made by the County Council and the six district authorities when agreeing the Gloucestershire Statement of Common Ground.
District officers have been engaged throughout the preparation of the Economic Strategy Engagement document. This has included regular monthly updates through the Economic Development Officers Forum, two District officers being part of the project Task Group, and an individual meeting with each District authority to capture the views of officers during the first stage of the engagement process. These views have informed the content of the engagement document.
Will there be public meetings during the engagement?
There are no public meetings planned during the public engagement process. To inform the production of the engagement document numerous stakeholder interviews took place where stakeholders were invited to provide their views on their priorities this informed the content of the engagement document.
Ensuring our schools are providing the right skill sets for our future business growth is critical. How can we be sure that all schools and colleges are engaged in a relevant way to do this?
This is an important part of the development and delivery of the emerging strategy.
Through the work of the Gloucestershire Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs), it will bring together employers, education, and training providers and other local stakeholders to set out the key priorities and changes needed locally. This will ensure post-16 technical education and training prepares employees better for work.
In addition to this, the county council’s own Employment and Skills Hub works closely with schools and school leavers to provide support. And the soon to be integrated Careers Hub will strengthen this relationship.