Replacing the shorter-term 2020 recovery strategy, the 2025–2035 Economic Growth Plan is built around three priorities: supporting people, championing businesses, and making North Somerset an attractive place to live and work.  

The council said key actions include improving skills and wellbeing, reducing barriers to employment, supporting businesses from start-ups to established enterprises, and encouraging sustainable development. 

To connect residents with opportunities, the council will work with employers, educators, and the Voluntary, Community, Faith, and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector to boost training and help disadvantaged groups into work.  

At the same time, investment in infrastructure, housing, transport, energy, and digital connectivity will create the “conditions for growth”, supported by climate resilience projects such as flood defences. 

Revitalising town centres through culture, community, and business activity is also central to the plan, the council said. 

The plan sets out a path from reducing economic inactivity and improving access to jobs, funding, and infrastructure in the next two years, to becoming a hub for innovation with stronger businesses and better retention of young talent within five.  

By 2035, it aims for a “diverse, high-wage economy with reduced inequality, higher productivity, and national recognition for sustainability and innovation.”  

The 10-year plan also aims to reduce inactivity from 22 per cent to 12 per cent, matching national productivity levels, eliminating deprivation, and improving well-being. 

Cllr Mark Canniford, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Places and Service Transformation, said: “By investing in our people, supporting local businesses, and building the infrastructure we need for the future, we’re laying the foundations for a stronger, fairer, and more sustainable local economy.  

“This is an ambitious vision for the next ten years, but it is one that reflects the talent, resilience, and potential of our communities.” 

You can view the full plan on North Somerset Council’s website.