Issue - meetings

To scrutinize the draft strategy for the development of Gwynedd's economy between 2025 and 2035.

DECISION

1.     Accept the strategy and note the observations.

2.     Express concern regarding the availability of grants for deprived areas such as Gwynedd, and express hope that there will be equality and fairness within the County in relation to the distribution of resources and support.

3.     Note the importance of collaboration between the Economy and Community Department and the Environment Department to ensure that the New Local Development Plan addresses the need to attract jobs and businesses to the County. In the same way, collaborate with Eryri National Park.

4.     Suggest that a clear structure is established to review the progress at the end of the year against the delivery plan.

The Cabinet Member for Economy and Community presented the report, noting that the report had been drawn up following extensive consultation with several businesses and organisations. It was noted that the current economic situation was challenging with businesses continuing to face many changes and challenges, including rising costs, the speed of digital transformation and the need to develop appropriate skills sustainably across the county.

It was noted that a recent statement from the Welsh Government referred to the possibility of £550 million of funding to boost the economy in Wales, but there was no clarity as to where that money would be allocated. It was noted that the situation was unclear, stressing that the level of funding received had decreased significantly. It was elaborated that around £20 million was received two years ago with £8.5 million received this year, and that this figure could decrease further next year.

It was stressed, therefore, that a clear strategy was needed to outline the priorities moving forward. It was noted that, following the receipt of input from Committee Members in February on the priorities for increasing the future prosperity of Gwynedd's residents and communities, an initial draft of the long-term strategy would be submitted to the Committee for Members to offer input and feedback before the document was confirmed.

It was emphasised that the long-term strategy in question sets the overall direction, with an action plan behind it to outline the projects that would contribute to the realisation of the strategy, and that said plan would be updated annually. It was noted that this was not just a Council strategy, but a strategy for the whole county, with the intention of continuing to work closely with partners to finalise the final document.

The intention to establish a Gwynedd Economy Forum was explained to co-ordinate the work with partners from all sectors and to build on the positive experiences of implementing the Shared Prosperity Fund. It was noted that the next steps would be to receive additional input, establish the Gwynedd Economy Forum, confirm the content of the strategy, and submit the final document to Cabinet and then to the Full Council.

The Committee was thanked for its 17 comments at the meeting on 13 February 2025, and it was noted that these had been considered in the formulation of the strategy.

During the discussion, the following observations were made: 

It was noted that it was a pleasure to see the work coming to fruition, and more information about the Gwynedd Economy Forum was requested, specifically in terms of membership and how often it would meet. In response, it was noted that the intention was to include representatives from the main sectors that are important to Gwynedd, such as agriculture, tourism, education, universities and colleges, as well as local business owners, entrepreneurs and economic experts. It was emphasised that the representation of the private sector was an essential element of the Forum to secure practical advice and expertise.

Questions were asked about the references  ...  view the full minutes text for item 5