HARROGATE councillors have rubber stamped a plan to boost economic growth for the next two decades.
The Economic Growth Strategy for the Harrogate district (2017-2035) and the associated Economic Growth Action Plan (2017-2022) were approved by the council on Wednesday night.
The council wants to attract businesses in key sectors; boost average pay; and achieve a sustainable and resilient economy by 2035.
Councillor Graham Swift, the cabinet member for economic development, said: "We have a lot to be proud of – we have a vibrant visitor economy, we are one of the country’s leading conference locations, and have a strong, growing rural economy which supports over 2,500 jobs.
"However, there are significant challenges to address before we can build a truly sustainable economy that works for everyone.
"There are currently barriers in place preventing the growth of higher paid jobs either due to specific skills gaps or where transport, office accommodation and digital infrastructure is preventing business growth."
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