AN ECONOMY growing sustainably and inclusively with a focus on increasing productivity and skills is at the core of the new Economic Growth strategy for West Northamptonshire.

The strategy sets out an ambitious vision to drive business growth, job creation and investment. It focuses on 12 key priorities to deliver long-term economic success, with business growth and innovation central to the plan as well as supporting local businesses to scale up, promoting entrepreneurship and attracting inward investment.

The strategy focuses on driving innovative technologies and attracting inward investment from sectors including advanced manufacturing, life sciences, clean energy, advanced logistics, motorsport, creative and digital.

Launching the draft strategy at the West Northants Economic Growth Summit at Silverstone Museum, Cllr Daniel Lister, cabinet member for local economy, culture and leisure, said: “The Economic Growth strategy reflects our commitment to building a dynamic and resilient local economy that benefits everyone.

“Through this plan, local businesses will gain greater access to funding and residents will directly benefit from economic growth, whether through increased job opportunities, access to training and upskilling programmes, or improved career pathways.”

A proactive focus on inward investment and sectors which will increase productivity and skill levels will be essential to realising West Northamptonshire’s potential.

“We want to increase life chances, improve pride in place and showcase West Northants as a must-invest destination. Our focus on regenerating town centres will enhance the local experience, making these areas more attractive for visitors while encouraging local spending and supporting independent businesses.”

Infrastructure improvements, particularly in transport and digital connectivity, will support business growth and make it easier for residents to access work, education, and essential services.

The strategy prioritises skills, employment, and inclusion as well as working closely with education providers and businesses to develop a highly skilled workforce through apprenticeships, training programmes and career development initiatives that match employer needs.

BUSINESS has had a major say in the new economic vision for North Northamptonshire.

A new strategy which looks at economic growth in the area aims to set out the priorities and goals for North Northamptonshire over the next five years.

The plans are founded on three action ‘pillars’:

• Business Supporting business growth leading to the creation of sustainable employment with opportunities for progression and higher pay
• People Developing the workforce and supporting people into work including those disadvantaged.
• Places Enhancing North Northamptonshire’s offer for business, visitors and residents.

The draft strategy was presented to visitors and exhibitors at Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce’s Northamptonshire Business Exhibition at Wicksteed Park near Kettering last month.

“The economy has seen changed substantially over the last few years and it is vital that we do all we can to support growth in North Northamptonshire by tackling challenges and seizing opportunities,” said Cllr David Brackenbury, the council’s executive member for growth and regeneration.

“This strategy sets out key priorities and actions on topics important to growth including the need to attract inward investment, raise skill levels and help existing businesses to grow. It builds on our strengths but also seeks to develop our offer to other sectors such as digital technology.”

The council’s executive is due to consider the strategy this week (March 13). If approved, a North Northamptonshire Economic Ambition Board will be set up to oversee the strategy and action plan. The strategy will also be posted on the council’s website.

Council leader Jason Smithers said: “We have always had a strong vision for the local area and this is highlighted within the work we are doing on Big50 [the long-term vision for North Northamptonshire]. But there is always more that can be done.

“This is best achieved by working together. That is why we have been working collaboratively with stakeholders, including local business leaders, and other partners on creating this document.”

North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive will meet on Thursday (March 13) at 10am at the Cube and all the papers are now online. The meeting will be live streamed on YouTube.