Russell George AM has called for more business units to support business growth in Powys.
Questioning the Welsh Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Economy this week, (2nd May), Russell George, Assembly Member for Montgomeryshire, called for the Welsh Government to facilitate a potential solution to the shortage of commercial units in North Powys so that businesses can develop and expand their operations.
The Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Ken Skates AM, agreed to attend a meeting to be facilitated by Mr George, along with the Chief Regional Officer who is putting together a regional plan forMid and South West Wales. Mr Skates said that the plan is an effort to ensure that the Welsh Government's Economic Action Plan specifically addresses the lack of available and suitable premises for growing businesses.
The Welsh Government has already invested in places to accommodate companies such as Zip-Clip, Invertek Drives and Charlies stores which has been beneficial to the Welshpool area.
Welcoming the Cabinet Secretary’s positive response, Mr George said:
“I continue to be approached by a number of companies in the Newtown and Welshpool areas who have experienced difficulties in obtaining suitable sites to develop and expand their business.
“I was pleased that Ken Skates recognised this issue and, like me, saw the potential of a Mid Wales Growth Deal in providing a solution to the shortage of commercial units.
“We have a strong manufacturing and engineering industry throughout the Severn Valley and I am keen that the Welsh Government continues to support this sector to grow.
“I’m particularly pleased that the Cabinet Secretary has agreed to meet a number of local businesses with me, to learn more about the issues which they are facing, with a view to exploring options to support business growth in the area.
“I would encourage businesses to contact me if they are experiencing difficulties in growing there business as a result of lack of commercial accommodation or sites available.”