Local economy - development

The Council has taken a very active role in encouraging the economy of the Borough to grow and develop.

This role has seen both finance and resources directed to stimulating an environment that encourages companies to grow, attracts new businesses into the Borough, and sees new businesses start up.

The Council's commitment to the economy has seen steady progress made with increasing numbers employed, reduced numbers unemployed and a growing number of local companies increasing their size and capabilities. There is of course still much more to do to diversify the economic base of the Borough and efforts will continue to ensure the companies based in the area have the maximum opportunity for expansion.

The Council's efforts have fallen into four main areas of activity:

Services to business and commerce

• Land availability information
• Property availability details
• Access to the help network 
• European marketing opportunities 
• Business relocation advice 
• Networking opportunities
  

Business development

• Business start up assistance
• Rural diversification advice 
• Business advice from the help network 
• Encouraging the development of new forms of business help 
• Crossover between education and business 
• Quality/environmental standards
  

Tourism

• Customer care training
• Encouraging the pursuit of quality grading 
• New attractions development 
• Visitor/Tourist Information Centre 
• Worldwide marketing programme 
• Business support
  

Town Centre

• Development of major events
• Shop Front Improvements Scheme 
• Safety and security 
• Improving streetscape 
• Increasing footfall 
• Quality of customer care 

With all of these activities the Council relies heavily upon its many partners to achieve the positive outcomes that have taken place. It is only by working together with those with the specialist knowledge and expertise required that meaningful progress can be made.

However, more important is to have common goals and common aspirations with our partners so that we can all work towards a common purpose. This key aspect of the Council's work will continue to be the basis for all activities in the field of Economic Development.

For further information contact:

John Dale
Economic Development Manager
Rugby Borough Council
Town Hall
Rugby CV21 2RR

Telephone: (01788) 533734
Fax: (01788) 533877
Email: john.dale@rugby.gov.uk