Biggest names in business have city regeneration on the agenda

REGENERATION OF one of the country’s most historic cities can accelerate growth while staying true to its heritage roots, political leaders have said, creating jobs and housing to protect its future.

Some of the biggest names in business are to attend a conference in York on Monday for the launch of the city’s Business Week, including executives from the Bank of England, Nestlé, Homeserve and Hiscox Direct.

A key part of the discussion is to form around the council’s economic strategy for the area, with planned developments for York Central and the Castle Gateway.

This is a city on the brink of major change, say leaders, and there are further opportunities as industry moves from its traditional manufacturing past to a future invested in hi-tech, finance and creative industries.

“Our city is unique and steeped in history, but, through key regeneration projects, we also have the opportunity to take advantage of economic growth,” said Coun Keith Aspden, executive member for economic development at York Council.

“Our focus is on being a business-friendly council and delivering long-term sustainable growth that not only preserves and celebrates our heritage, but also achieves the best outcomes for current and future generations.”

York’s economy has changed dramatically over recent years, with new industries burgeoning in the wake of major closures including the Terry’s chocolate factory, which closed in 2005 with the loss of 300 jobs.

The York Business Week, which runs until Friday, November 19, and is hosted by Make it York, is focused on the future for the area as it supports rising numbers of jobs in new industries, alongside planned development to enable further growth.

There will also be a keynote address from the Bank of England’s Juliette Healy, presenting on economic prospects for the UK and for the region.

“This event is an opportunity for us to set out how the council plans to support businesses and help the city grow over the next decade and beyond,” said council leader Ian Gillies.

“I’m delighted with the progress that is being made in advancing York’s major regeneration projects. The York Central scheme is one of the largest brownfield development projects in the UK and will grow York’s city centre by a third, creating new high-value jobs and providing much-needed housing in the heart of York.”

Mary Weastell, the council’s chief executive, added: “This is a truly exciting time for York. York has a great mix of businesses across all sectors.

“Making sure that social care providers, retailers and tourism businesses can thrive in York is just as important as supporting the increasing numbers of hightech, creative and finance businesses.”