Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Director of Economy, Transport and Environment with the economic development annual update.

The Sub-Committee considered the report of the Director of Economy, Transport and Environment with the annual economic development report for 2020/21.

The report was presented by Richard Kenny, the Interim Assistant Director for Economic Development. The report outlined the considerable uncertainties arising throughout the year that had undermined the performance of the economy. This focussed on the economic impact of the pandemic on Hampshire and also the effects of the Brexit transition. Key successes and achievements for the service were set out, despite the challenging conditions, as were the forward pathways in terms of how Hampshire can best adapt and prosper into the future, out of response to the pandemic and into economic recovery.

Members noted the £410million in local authority distributed business grants that had been awarded towards supporting the economy across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. The Sub-Committee also discussed the general recovery across the South East, noting the significant initial impact on the economy in previous recessions but the strong recovery thereafter. Specifically, the Sub-Committee noted and supported the pending planning application for the runway extension at Southampton Airport in the context of the importance of maintaining regional air travel and the long term viability for the site.

RESOLVED:

That the Cabinet Advisory Sub-Committee on Economic Growth and Recovery notes the report.