Economic Development Strategy

Our Economic Development strategy is designed to strengthen business and employment in the Forest of Dean by raising community and business aspirations and expectations, utilising the natural assets, creating jobs for local people and supporting regeneration.

We recognise the importance of small business, and have an active policy to encourage new start-ups, growth of existing business, and inward investment. The strategy aims to develop an excellent business support service and better standards of business space and communications. Improvements in education and skills and support for regeneration projects which focus on local deprived areas are also high priorities.

There is a strong focus on high priority employment sectors, which include ICT, tourism, the creative industries, the retail sector in the four market towns, the local food and drink industry, and the services sector.

Improvements in local infrastructure are also critical and sites and premises, ICT & telecommunications, public transport, road links and town centre redevelopment are also seen as crucial elements in the strategy.

Support for the strategy is provided by partnerships with Gloucestershire County Council, the South West Regional Development Agency, Gloucestershire First, Business Link, the Learning & Skills Council, Job Centre Plus and Parklife.

To view the current strategy please click on the following link: Economic Development Strategy

For further information please call James Woodcock, Economic Development Officer
Tel:  01594 812610
Email:  james.woodcock@fdean.gov.uk