THE FUTURE of Selby’s economy could include advances in media, agricultural technology and advanced manufacturing.

Selby District Council’s newly-published Economic Development Strategy  outlines the district’s economic plans for the next four years.

Plans for the region include a “long-term programme of investment, regeneration and events” to make Selby, Tadcaster and Sherburn-in-Elmet, more attractive to visitors and improve the night-time economy, by “fully capitalising on attractions such as Selby Abbey, Selby Leisure Village and Tadcaster’s brewing heritage in order to capture and retain local and visitor spend”.

Councillor Chris Metcalfe holds the portfolio for communities and economic development with SDC, and said the document showed an optimism the council and its partner agencies were able to deliver for the good of the region and the country.

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He said: “We believe that Selby District has a critical role to play in transforming growth in the north of England, and rebalancing the country’s economy. Our aim is to create economic prosperity, and better connect sustainable growth, across Yorkshire and the Humber, and the north as a whole.

“Our focus is on creating opportunities and improving prospects not just for this generation, but for future generations to come. This strategy is ambitious, forward thinking and outward looking.”

The council said it would also work closely with neighbouring authorities in York, Doncaster, East Riding, Harrogate, Wakefield and other groups.

By 2018, the council intends to grow its logistics, construction and visitor and night-time economy, but by 2020, the district intends to grow its advanced manufacturing and energy and bio-renewable industries.

Longer term, beyond 2020, the report said the district hoped to grow its agricultural technology and creative and media sectors, but throughout the next four years or more, the council said it will support local businesses and investment from outside the region.

The economic development strategy is open to public consultation until September 28, and viewable on the council’s website, selby.gov.uk and comments can be sent to economicdevelopmentstrategy@selby.gov.uk