Recovery plan

COUNCIL chiefs are working to put together a cultural programme – a package of events for the district which will not only bring visitors in but also create jobs and boost the economy.

It has also invested money in business support programmes meaning that people wanting to start up their own businesses, perhaps after losing their jobs due to the pandemic, can access advice and support for free.

It has also created new online platforms to support traders to move business on line and ensure the High Street continues to thrive.

And it is also working with Weston College to ensure there are apprenticeship and training opportunities to help young people so badly affected by the pandemic back into work.

A new digital inclusion project, funded with a £40,000 grant from the Department for Work and Pensions, is also being launched to help people shift to digital learning and access virtual employability support.

Millions has also been paid out in Government grants to help support local businesses.

“The issue is we cannot guess the full extent of the problems until they happen,” said Mr Canniford. “But we can do our best to get North Somerset into the best place it can be.”

Mr Canniford said he expected it to be at least spring before the tide starts to turn for North Somerset.

“When the vaccine is in place, the sun is shining and people feel safe to come out again, I am sure the North Somerset economy will bounce back.”