West Lancashire's economy is on the right track - but there's still more to do. That's the message from the Conservative deputy leader of West Lancashire Borough Council, Cllr Adrian Owens, this week.
It comes amid a flurry of good news for West Lancashire, including:
- New statistics showing falling unemployment in the borough
- Increased occupancy rates at West Lancs Investment Centre
- No empty units at Sandy Lane and Digmoor shopping centres
- The commencement of the new Booths store in Burscough
- Work starting on a new £1m business development in Gorsey Place, Gillibrands, Skelmersdale
Cllr Owens said: "It's heartening to see a brighter economic picture emerging in West Lancashire."The performance at the Investment Centre, which has seen occupancy rates shoot up from less than 60% in 2012 to more than 90% now, backs the decision the Conservatives took last year to move council staff out to create more space for expanding businesses. Now we have seen many new businesses attracted there and conference income is up.It’s also saved the council taxpayer almost £40,000 in rent payments as the council staff have instead been located at the main council offices in Ormskirk. Thank goodness we didn’t listen to the local Labour party who last summer were talking about selling the building instead.”
Cllr Owens also pointed to other good economic news: "There are now almost 600 fewer people on the dole here since last year, and a drop of around 25% since the General Election. Sandy Lane Shopping Centre and Digmoor Parade are now fully let, and work has started on the new Booths store in Burscough as well as new business units in Skelmersdale, bringing more jobs into the area.
"Local Conservatives are working hard to bring jobs and prosperity to West Lancashire. It isn't easy, the whole country is having to tighten its belts because of Labour's economic mismanagement. We also have a local Labour Group which constantly talks down West Lancashire, tried to cut funding to Ormskirk Motorfest and refused to rule out imposing pay and display in Burscough.
"But by work closely with residents and businesses, we will do everything possible to ensure West Lancashire has a bright economic future."