Local leaders hope new plans will help transform Suffolk into a hub for growth and innovation
A new Local Growth Plan aims to boost the number of people in work in Suffolk by around 35,000
Local leaders in Suffolk tell us they're working to transform the county into a hub for sustainable growth and innovation.
Earlier this week the county council approved a new Local Growth Plan, which it hopes will boost the number of people in work in Suffolk by around 35,000 - and contribute £14 billion to the economy by 2045.
"Boosting opportunity and growth"
Mark Pendlington is the chair of the Suffolk Business Board.
He's been working on the plan with businesses, partners and stakeholders across the county: "This strategy is all about boosting opportunity and growth as we plan a massive collaborative effort to secure a prosperous and sustainable economic future for Suffolk.
“It reflects the views of many hundreds of leaders from across business, local authorities, education, health and the voluntary sector, all of whom have shared their ideas and expertise, and have been very clear about the challenges and opportunities we face.
“We all recognise Suffolk’s role as a key driver of the UK economy and are determined to promote Suffolk as one of the best places in the country to live, work, learn and invest.”
More about the plan
By 2045, the strategy sets out to achieve:
- An additional £14billion contribution to the economy, surpassing the average growth rate in England
- 45,000 more people qualified to Level 3 or higher
- 35,000 more people participating in the workforce
- A significant increase in average wages across the region.
How will these results be achieved?
At the core of the plan is the EPIC framework designed to guide investments and funding priorities:
Economic well-being
Productivity
Inclusivity
Clean growth
The strategy identifies several key areas for economic growth:
- Identifying the sectors in Suffolk with high growth potential.
"Suffolk is already a national leader in clean energy, with offshore wind and nuclear projects at the forefront.
"The county’s agri-food and drink sector is set to grow through sustainable practices and agri-tech innovation, while the county’s ports and logistics sector is a critical gateway for UK trade."
- Tech Convergence:
"Suffolk has the potential to become a leader in Tech Convergence, where technologies such as digital, AI, clean tech, robotics and satellite applications intersect and integrate with existing industries, creating an environment ripe for innovation and growth."
- Emerging and Value Growth sectors:
"Suffolk’s technology sector also shows strong potential for growth, in areas such as ICT, digital creative industries, life sciences and financial services.
"Elsewhere, there are opportunities to further improve productivity and job quality in advanced manufacturing, construction, health and social care, and the visitor economy."
"A bold vision for Suffolk’s future"
Cllr Richard Smith MVO, Suffolk County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for finance, economic development and skills, said: “This new strategy represents a bold vision for Suffolk’s future – a county in which, by proving its competitiveness and levels of productivity, we can all be proud.
“For residents, it means better jobs, improved infrastructure and greater access to skills training, creating opportunities for everyone. For businesses, it fosters a dynamic environment driven by innovation, sustainability and cutting-edge technologies like AI and clean technology.
“Together, these efforts ensure Suffolk isn’t just a leader in growth but an exceptional place to live, work, learn and invest.”