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The Rural Economy: Challenges, Opportunities and the Road Ahead

What do rural communities need to thrive over the next 10 years?

 

Bath & North East Somerset is at the heart of the region’s growth strategy, and the voice of local businesses is crucial to unlocking its economic potential.

 

Rural businesses and communities across B&NES face a distinct set of challenges, from workforce availability and skills gaps to transport, digital connectivity and access to opportunities for growth. But there are also significant opportunities to explore, and the decisions we make now will help shape the rural economy's future for years to come.

 

Join us for a forward-looking discussion about what rural businesses and communities need to thrive over the next decade, and what businesses, councils and local partners can do together to make that happen.

 

We’ll be joined by Councillor Paul Roper (Cabinet Member for Economic and Cultural Sustainable Development, Bath & North East Somerset Council) and Jon Evans (Director of People & Culture, Arthur David), who will bring perspectives from both local government and the business community to the conversation.

 

The discussion will explore:

  • The key challenges facing rural businesses and communities across B&NES
  • The opportunities for sustainable economic growth over the next 10 years
  • Skills, workforce development and attracting talent to rural areas
  • Transport and digital connectivity, and the infrastructure businesses need to grow
  • The role of initiatives such as the Somer Valley Enterprise Zone (SVEZ) in supporting rural businesses and the wider economy
  • How the business community can work with councils and partners to influence priorities and shape future strategy

Spaces are limited, so register early to secure your place and ensure your voice is heard.

Please note: If you’re unable to attend, we welcome you to share this event with a colleague. Additional members of your team are also encouraged to attend.

About the Economic Development Group 

 

This Economic Development Group will bring together senior business leaders, policy influencers and B&NES Chamber and Initiative members to:

 

  • Review current economic priorities for B&NES
  • Discuss emerging opportunities and challenges impacting growth
  • Share insights and ideas to influence future strategy
  • Explore how the business community can help address skills gaps and support workforce development
  • Build stronger connections between businesses, policymakers and local partners

 

Whether you’re a long-standing member or new to the network, this is an opportunity to connect with peers, hear directly from key voices, contribute your perspective and help shape the conversation about the future of the rural economy.

Stay informed on key developments in B&NES, influence decisions that could shape the region’s economic future and build valuable connections with like-minded business leaders.

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