A new strategy to deliver economic growth in Dorset is agreed by Cabinet

At its meeting yesterday, Dorset Council's Cabinet approved a new Economic Strategy which is set to drive employment, investment, and innovation across the county.

The Dorset Council Plan 2024-2029 lists ‘growing Dorset’s economy’ as one of its key priority areas of focus.

This new strategy sets out how the council intends to deliver economic prosperity for the people and businesses of Dorset through four clear objectives:

• Boost economic growth: by identifying and prioritising key projects to stimulate the Dorset economy
• Attract investment: by positioning Dorset as a prime investment location
• Create high-value jobs: facilitate the generation of high-value, highly skilled jobs
• Strategic negotiations: establish clear priorities for negotiations with government and regional partners.

With an economy worth £8.45 billion GVA, supporting 145,000 jobs across 20,000 businesses, Dorset is poised for significant growth.

The county boasts strengths in advanced engineering, manufacturing, defence, and security, with many businesses delivering innovative products that contribute to the South-West's economy.

Priorities within the strategy include the continued regeneration of Weymouth, delivery of clean energy projects in Portland and South Dorset.

It also sets out the importance of forming direct relationships with businesses across the county.

Another priority is building on the existing investment in projects such as the £8m road improvements at Dinah’s Hollow north of Blandford and the introduction of Saturday bus services linking Shaftesbury, Gillingham, and Sturminster Newton.

Councillor Richard Biggs, Dorset Council’s cabinet member for Property, Assets and Economic Growth said: “I am delighted that Cabinet members recognise and agree with our new, focused approach to economic growth in Dorset.

“This new economic strategy aligns with our Council Plan priority of growing a sustainable and prosperous economy.

“In partnership with our stakeholders, we have a comprehensive range of activities planned which align with the strategy's ambitions and sets out a clear pathway for economic success.

“This is a purposeful, targeted economic strategy designed to capitalise on the vast opportunities out there which we must act on if we are to change the economic future of Dorset.

“Now the hard work really begins. We will continue to develop and commit to a comprehensive and sustainable action plan that will deliver long term economic benefits for all our communities.”

The council is already delivering another priority set out in the strategy – boosting the support for the Dorset Innovation Park in Winfrith to attract more businesses, innovation and creating new jobs.

A new council owned arms-length company has been created to deliver the continued growth of the Dorset Innovation Park at Winfrith, creating 300 jobs by 2029.

Recruiting a Chair and Managing Director for the company is underway and appointments will be announced later this summer.