PORT Macquarie-Hastings Council has adopted a new strategy designed to enhance the region’s short, medium and long-term economic prospects.
The economic development strategy was adopted at council’s meeting and represents a new approach to economic development in the region.
It is focused on key outcomes and actions over the next three years (2013/16) and highlights the need for a strong partnership between council, business and industry.
The strategy recognises businesses and industry as the key drivers of the local economy but also the important role council plays in being supportive of business and ensuring economic development considerations are crucial to the council’s decision making.
“There is plenty of optimism locally when it comes to our economy and future opportunity,” mayor Peter Besseling said after the meeting.
“This strategy works to address the challenge of combining continued growth and diversity while creating a resilient economy that will provide jobs growth, economic success and community prosperity.”
The finalisation of the strategy is also an important milestone for the council’s Economic Development Steering Group, which has played an integral role in drafting the strategy and seeking input from local business, industry and the broader community.
In addressing the item at the meeting, steering group chairman Cr Rob Turner thanked the staff and community members who had worked on the strategy.
“The new strategy focuses directly on our vision that the Port Macquarie-Hastings be a great place for people to live, learn, work, play and invest,” Cr Turner said.
