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Flintshire in Business 2018 – What the Growth Deal Means for Business - one year on

Published: 13/06/2018

Flintshire County Council’s latest business event took place at Northop Country House Hotel recently. Flintshire in Business hosted a group of senior business leaders who had the opportunity to hear from Rt. Hon. Lord Barry Jones, President of Flintshire in Business 2018, as well as from Flintshire County Council’s Chief Executive, Colin Everett, Chief Officer (Planning, Environment and Economy) Andy Farrow and Deputy Chief Executive (Place) Cheshire West and Chester Council, Charlie Seward. Welcoming everyone to the event, President of Flintshire in Business, Lord Barry Jones, said: “Flintshire County Council and Cheshire West and Chester Council are looking for contributions and feedback from business leaders. We want to continue to engage you in conversation and consultation. You are the economic generators of this great region which is the only cross-border economy in Britain with great manufacturing activity – more than 32% of our GDP is manufacturing – far higher than anywhere else in the country.” Speakers then introduced the strategic context which underpins the developing Bid including North Wales regional aspirations and Flintshire’s local ambitions. Colin Everett spoke in greater detail on the North Wales Growth Deal Bid. He said: “We have a compelling package of ambitious plans for which we are seeking funding from both Governments. Transport infrastructure and services is the key which will unlock our potential.” There followed a discussion which generated great suggestions and ideas from the business leaders. These included the need for innovation and digital connectivity, using the river as an inland waterway linking to sea transportation and the possibilities of increased air transport. Flintshire County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Councillor Derek Butler, said: “We really appreciate all the input from the business leaders and it has given us a clear perspective on things. I believe that, with all the coordinated work being done in partnership, we are in the best place we have ever been in to get the investment we need.” For more information or to obtain a copy of the presentation documents or to find out more about Flintshire in Business events, please contact businessweek@flintshire.gov.uk. PHOTO: Charlie Seward addresses the audience at the most recent Growth Deal event [photo courtesy of Ginger Pixie]