Durham County Council said its Inclusive Economic Strategy is helping to boost the county’s economy and create a wide range of opportunities for residents thanks to more investment. The strategy, which was launched in December 2022, aims to create more and better jobs while making the area a better place to live.
Councillor Elizabeth Scott hailed the work of cross-party councillors and officers in transforming the region. “We’ve laid the foundations for a better economic future for all our communities,” she told a cabinet meeting.
The Liberal Democrat member added: “County Durham is in a much better place economically than it was. Our economy is almost £2bn bigger, more of our residents are in work and we are bridging the gap with the national average. We have made great strides in recent years to show what the county offers and have finally been recognised by investors and visitors, and need to work in partnership to continue and build momentum.”
The county’s decision to sign up for the North East Combined Authority devolution deal continues to provide new opportunities, the meeting was told.
Council Leader Amanda Hopgood said the progress has dispelled any suggestions the area is in decline. “Despite constant negativity from the opposition about County Durham being closed for business, this report is evidence that this couldn’t be further from the truth,” she said.
“We have implemented the art of the possible. When you demonstrate enthusiasm, promote positivity, and work in true partnership and collaboration we can change direction and deliver real change.”
Strategic business parks across the county continue to grow and attract new investors including the expansion of NETPark in Sedgefield, new business space at Integra 61 in Bowburn and the recent announcement of a new logistics park at Forrest Park in Newton Aycliffe.
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Other actions have helped to support the regeneration of Bishop Auckland town centre and create new and improved visitor attractions across the county including The Story, Remaking Beamish and Raby Estate.
Liberal Democrat councillor Mark Wilkes said the ruling coalition – made up of Conservative, Liberal Democrats and Independents – has steered the county towards success.
He added: “It really does make a difference who is in charge in this building. The work that has gone on by colleagues and officers across this county is astounding. To have 8,000 more jobs and to be progressing so quickly to where we were when Labour ran this authority is absolutely amazing.”