Business West, and the Bristol Initiative in particular, is deeply embedded in the strategic framework that shapes the economic and social landscape of our city.
Through key representations on various boards and partnerships with social and business organisations, our mission is to ensure that the interests and insights of our members are at the forefront of Bristol’s development. We understand that it’s not always easy to know exactly where we are representing our members, so this article outlines the critical roles played by the Bristol Initiative team in representing you and driving positive change in our region and beyond.
Championing Economic Growth: One City Economy and Skills Board
Director of the Bristol Initiative, Victoria Matthews, as Chair of the One City Economy and Skills Board, has a seat at the table for some of the highest-level discussions of Bristol’s economic strategy. The board plays a pivotal role in aligning economic development with the city’s long-term vision, ensuring that Bristol remains a thriving hub for business and innovation. This position allows us to advocate for policies that foster skills development, job creation, and sustainable growth, directly benefiting our members and the wider business community.
The One City Economy and Skills Board is part of the broader One City Approach, which aims to create a fair, healthy, and sustainable city by 2050. By being actively involved, Business West ensures that the needs and aspirations of our members are reflected in the city's economic agenda.
Strategic Influence: One City Governance Board and One City Multi Board
In addition to her role on the Economy and Skills Board, Victoria sits on the One City Governance Board and the One City Multi Board. These boards are integral to the governance and operational framework of the One City approach, providing oversight and strategic direction across all aspects of the initiative.
By participating in these boards, we ensure that the voice of the business community is heard at the heart of city governance. This involvement allows us to influence decisions on a wide range of issues, from infrastructure development to public services, ensuring that the business environment in Bristol continues to thrive.
Collaborative Partnerships: Bristol City Partners Group and Beyond
The Bristol Initiative is also represented on the Bristol City Partners Group, a diverse assembly of leaders from police, fire services, faith organisations, the NHS, and the business sector. This group is essential in fostering cross-sector collaboration, addressing complex city challenges, and driving collective action for the benefit of all Bristol citizens.
Moreover, our representation on the City Centre, Broadmead, and Redcliffe & Temple Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) ensures that the commercial interests of our members are well-represented. These BIDs are crucial for enhancing the vibrancy and economic growth of key areas within Bristol, contributing to a dynamic and attractive city for businesses and consumers alike.
Regional Impact: South Gloucestershire Strategic Partnership Group
Victoria’s role also extends into South Gloucestershire, where she sits on the Strategic Partnership Group. This involvement allows us to contribute to and influence regional strategies that impact our members operating in the wider West of England area. The group focuses on regional development, transport, housing, and environmental sustainability, all of which are critical to the success of businesses in the area.
Engagement with Community and Civic Groups: PTCC and Beyond
Business West runs and manages the Planning, Transport, and Climate Change group (PTCC), which is another platform where we actively engage with various community and civic groups across Bristol. Through regular interaction with the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) and Bristol City Council, the PTCC addresses key issues affecting urban development, transport, and climate change within the city.
Our involvement in these discussions ensures that the business perspective is considered in decisions that shape the city’s infrastructure and public spaces. This integrated approach to city planning is crucial for creating an environment where businesses can thrive, and residents can enjoy a high quality of life.
Growing Together Alliance: Building a Sustainable Future
In addition to our extensive board representation, Business West is proud to be part of the Growing Together Alliance. This is chaired by the Northern Powerhouse Partnership and includes BusinessLDN, Business South, Cambridge Ahead and the North West Business Leadership Team. A key focus of this collaboration is driving place-based economic strategy to boost regional productivity and good growth, including by strengthening innovation, spatial planning and foreign direct investment.
This alliance of regional private sector groups can work with our publicly elected bodies and public private partnerships, for example the Western Gateway, to strengthen our approach to delivering economic benefits for the whole of the country. This collaboration reflects our belief that businesses play a vital role in creating a prosperous and equitable society.
A Unified Voice for Bristol’s Business Community
At Business West, our commitment to representing the interests of our members extends across multiple boards, partnerships, and initiatives. Whether it’s through the One City Approach, Business Improvement Districts, or regional partnerships, we ensure that the voice of the business community is heard and that our members are at the heart of Bristol’s development.
As we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities facing our city, Business West remains dedicated to supporting our members and shaping a bright future for Bristol and the wider region.
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