A six-month progress report from Staffordshire County Council highlights successes across the county, including attracting investment, creating jobs, supporting businesses, developing skills, and strengthening local communities. The council's work spans promoting Staffordshire nationally, supporting its visitor economy, developing major employment sites, and assisting businesses in innovation and growth.
Notable successes include Marks & Spencer's £67 million investment in a new warehouse at Fradley Park in Lichfield. Staffordshire was also showcased to investors at the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum, with planning underway for the 2027 event. The 'Made in Staffordshire' quality mark is actively promoting local products and manufacturing.
Major employment developments are progressing, with Chatterley Park having the potential to create up to 1,700 jobs, and West Midlands Interchange projected to generate up to 8,500 jobs over its lifetime. The county's visitor economy is now valued at £2.84 billion. Initiatives like the 'Staffy Trail' programme attracted thousands, generating an estimated £180,000 for the local economy. Screen Staffordshire, the county's film office, has generated an estimated £1.3 million in its first year, supporting 250 production shoot days and over 3,300 overnight stays.
Businesses are receiving support through the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Growth Hub's new 'Build and Scale' programme, and over 200 businesses attended the first Staffordshire Business Support Conference. The county council has also collaborated with colleges to secure more funding for post-16 education, resulting in a £34 million government announcement for further education projects in Staffordshire, following £10 million for the Advanced Manufacturing Technical Excellence Centre in Stafford.
“"Having thriving businesses, better jobs, and more opportunities for our residents is one of the main priorities for the county council. Our plan centres on giving small businesses practical help to grow, promoting Staffordshire to attract new investment, and working with colleges and employers to develop the skills our economy needs. None of this happens in isolation. By working with businesses, councils, education providers and other partners, we can build on Staffordshire’s strengths and ensure this success story continues."
The county council plans to continue working with partners to build on these successes, making Staffordshire an attractive place to invest, work, visit, and do business. The Economic Strategy progress will be reviewed by scrutiny members this week.
