Our local economy is built on the hard work of people across many different sectors, many of which have had a tough time in recent years and especially during the recent Coronavirus pandemic. We believe that Wiltshire Council needs to take a lead in helping our local economy recover.

We want an economy in Wiltshire that works for everyone. Whether it’s tourism, agriculture, manufacturing or services, we want it to be dynamic, green, co-operative and skilled.

• Dynamic – with targeted investment in growth, jobs and tourism in every town across Wiltshire.

• Green – growing the green economy and building a better environment.

• Cooperative – making our enterprise agency work for all of us and bringing businesses together to do more.

• Skilled – building training and supporting education providers to deliver the knowledge and skills that people need.

We recognise that this is not just about building the economic infrastructure to support this, but also about building the social infrastructure to support working people in jobs such as childcare and public transport and help with the care of elderly or disabled relatives.

Labour will:

• Invest in economic growth throughout Wiltshire, attracting inward investment and supporting businesses to provide good quality local employment.

• Support the Green Economy to create jobs and meet our Climate Emergency commitments through renewable energy and energy conservation.

• Deliver small-scale enterprise parks and business centres through local plans to support local employment.

• Deliver the support local businesses need to thrive in a competitive environment.

• Build Wiltshire’s reputation as a tourist destination, bringing investment into the area.

• Help local communities to rejuvenate their high streets and retain vital local services.

• Ensure that Wiltshire Council procures goods and services to support local businesses.

• Invest in continuing education, training and skills to help local people get good secure jobs, including further and higher education.

• Support the MoD and military families as major contributors to the Wiltshire economy.

• Take a lead as a responsible employer, promoting jobs that provide good pay, secure conditions and training opportunities.