Stoke-on-Trent has a new plan to create jobs and stimulate growth. The city council aims to support businesses and improve community wealth through this strategy.
Stoke-on-Trent: The city council has just approved a new plan to boost jobs and growth. This strategy focuses on revitalizing town centers and supporting new businesses.
However, some Conservative critics aren’t impressed. They argue the plan lacks funding and won’t achieve its goals. The Labour-led council voted for this strategy during a recent meeting.
Council leader Jane Ashworth mentioned that they consulted with local businesses and residents to create this plan. It includes nine priorities across three main areas: people, business, and place.
She emphasized that the strategy aims to leverage Stoke-on-Trent’s strengths. The goal is to create a thriving city where businesses and communities can prosper together.
While some ambitions lack funding, Ashworth assured that they have resources to make progress in the coming years. The plan highlights both the city’s strengths and weaknesses, like health-related unemployment.
One key focus is community wealth building, encouraging local ownership and social enterprises. They also want to improve transport and housing to attract more businesses.
Additionally, the council plans to favor local businesses in procurement policies. Yet, opposition members argue the strategy doesn’t clearly outline how to achieve its goals.
Conservative leader Dan Jellyman criticized the Labour government’s impact on local employers. He believes the strategy is unrealistic and won’t benefit the average resident.
Despite the criticism, Labour councillors defended the strategy as an aspirational document. Now that it’s adopted, they plan to move into the delivery phase with key partners.
