Colchester Borough Council in line for top award
It's for their efforts in supporting the local economy before and during the pandemic
The award is for their efforts in supporting the local economy before and during the pandemic and encouraging future inward investment into the borough.
A record number of entries were submitted for consideration across the categories for the Local Government Chronicle Awards 2021.
The council is one of ten local authorities to be shortlisted in the Economic Support category.
The council’s submission highlighted the work they have undertaken to support local businesses recover and survive.
It also outlined the steps it has taken with a range of partners to help them support their networks through the difficulties faced as a result of Covid-19 and the national lockdowns and to help stimulate a stronger, greener, inclusive and resilient economy for the future.
The council has also worked very closely with a range of organisations including the Colchester Business Improvement District, Colchester Business Enterprise Agency and the University of Essex.
Councillor, Darius Laws, Portfolio Holder for Economy, Business & Heritage, said:
“Colchester has a proud history of supporting local businesses take root and flourish, not only generating jobs for local people but boosting our local economy.
“This is something we are committed to continuing and I am delighted that the hard work of the council, our staff and our partners has been recognised in this way. This, together with the evidence on the ground shows there is a real confidence in our economy as we emerge from Covid-19 and that Colchester is looking forward not back.”
Colchester Borough Council was also one of six north Essex authorities who joined together to use a proportion of the Government’s Discretionary Grants to offer small retailers six months’ free access to Click It Local platform.
This enabled online purchasing from multiple outlets, home delivery, and training and support for participating retailers.
Adrian Pritchard, Chief Executive of Colchester Borough Council, said:
“It is always an honour for the efforts of our staff working with others across the borough to be recognised in this way.
“These awards are one of the biggest and most prestigious for local government and I am very proud that Colchester Borough Council has once again been shortlisted in them.”
The award ceremony is taking place on the 4th November 2021.