A NEW county-wide roadmap setting out how Herefordshire will create jobs, support businesses and deliver the infrastructure needed for future growth has been launched.

The Big Economic Delivery Plan has been developed by the Economy and Place Partnership Board, bringing together organisations from business, education, skills, culture, climate and nature, and the community sector.

Building on the Herefordshire Economic Plan 2050, the Delivery Plan sets out four priorities to drive sustainable economic growth.

And top of the county’s ambitions is business growth with the authority helping businesses start, grow and invest by attracting new employers to strategic employment sites including Ross-on-Wye Enterprise Park and Hereford Enterprise Zone, supporting innovation in sectors such as agri-tech and defence, helping businesses make greater use of AI and strengthening the county’s inward investment offer.

Herefordshire Council aims to create thriving places where people want to live, work and invest by supporting sustainable housing growth, revitalising town centres, protecting the county’s natural environment and making the county an attractive destination for investment.

Herefordshire council is also helping residents develop the skills employers need now and in the future by strengthening apprenticeships, supporting the Youth Employment Hub, improving access to training, developing AI and digital skills and creating better pathways into work for young people and older workers.

Among other proposals is creating an infrastructure needed to unlock growth through projects including unlocking employment land investment at Ross Enterprise Park, and improved rail connectivity along with improvements to public transport.

Herefordshire Council’s Cabinet member for economy and growth, Cllr Graham Biggs, said: “This is about creating the right conditions for Herefordshire to thrive over the coming years.

“The Delivery Plan brings together our ambitions for more better paid jobs, stronger businesses, improved infrastructure and thriving communities into a single roadmap.

“By working together, we can build a stronger and more prosperous Herefordshire for current and future generations.”