£25m Kidderminster investment scheme highlighted in national report on how councils drive economic growth
A pioneering planning scheme that has brought £25 million of investment to Kidderminster has been featured as a case study in a major national report on how councils drive economic growth.
The Local Government Association's (LGA) new report 'A Force for Growth' highlights how councils across England contribute £117 billion annually to local economies and could unlock a further £276 billion through place-based industrial strategies.
Wyre Forest District Council's approach to the South Kidderminster Enterprise Park (SKEP) is showcased in the report as an example of innovative local leadership that has enabled economic development to happen quickly while protecting the environment.
The council introduced a Local Development Order (LDO) for the scheme in 2012, simplifying the planning process for businesses wanting to locate or expand in the area along Stourport Road and Worcester Road. The streamlined approach allowed certain employment developments to go ahead without full planning permission, making it faster and easier for businesses to invest.
