Blackpool businesses called upon to help economic strategy

More than 6,000 companies from the borough have been invited to complete a major survey that aims to help encourage the economy and prosperity in the area.

The survey, which has been sent to companies and can also be completed on-line, is geared to help shape Blackpool Council’s future planning and the business support services that it and its partners provide.

The research has been designed to provide key strategic information on Blackpool’s current business profile and the drivers and barrier that will influence the future plans of companies in the area.

Topics covered include the availability of suitable premises, skilled workforces, ease of transport connectivity and access to suitable business funding and grants.Coun Mark Smith, cabinet member for business and economic development, said: “Blackpool Council wants to hear about people’s experience of running businesses of all types and sizes in the Blackpool area.

“We want to understand more about the challenges that they face and any specific support services that we can extend or introduce that would help deliver further growth and job creation.

“This is an opportunity to provide valuable feedback to us on the issues that matter most to companies.”

The results of the survey will be shared with Blackpool’s business community and economic partnership organisations to enable further discussion to influence the policy, strategy and delivery of business support in Blackpool.

The council said the survey is completely confidential and can be completed at www.blackpool.gov.uk/consultations