24.06.20
Northumberland puts tourism and climate change at heart of recovery
An ambitious Covid-19 recovery plan was approved by Cabinet members of Northumberland County Council yesterday (June 23) highlighting tourism and climate change as key drivers.
During the special meeting, the Council discussed its response to the virus, which has seen over £90m in grants paid out to local businesses, and how the Council will support long-term social and economic recovery.
The Council plans to bring the County’s tourism back ‘stronger than ever’, through collaboration with partners and businesses to promote all that Northumberland has to offer and support for the local hospitality sector.
Climate Change remains a priority for the Council, with plans to plant one million new trees and establish a Forest Partnership to support the new green economy.
Peter Jackson, Leader of Northumberland County Council said:
“Whilst we’re not out of this crisis yet, it’s really important that our residents and businesses understand how we will play our part in the economic recovery of the county, and of course how we are going to help communities recover too.
“Our number one priority for Covid-19 recovery is to get our economy back on track, and we don’t underestimate the scale of the challenge. However, it’s important we remember that before the crisis, our economy was in a good place with real strengths in key sectors, including tourism, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and in energy and offshore.
“We need to rebuild confidence through strong leadership, and acknowledge that we have not lost our strengths in innovation, skills, our natural assets, and of course our people, and we need to harness all these to make sure we meet the challenge and come back stronger than ever.”
Other elements of the plan include making the dedicated Covid Business Hub a permanent asset, investing in new infrastructure including toads, schools, housing and amenities and delivering accessible apprenticeships and training opportunities for all.
LISTEN:Ep. 16 Cllr Nick Forbes - Net zero and an inclusive economy