Economic development in good hands

Bay of Connections, the region’s economic development strategy, has been given the thumbs up in an independent report on its success to date.

The report by Wasley Knell Consultants, commissioned by Environment Bay of Plenty, strongly acknowledges that Bay of Connections has provided regional leadership in respect of economic development and is making great gains from having regional and sub-regional groups working together to maximise the opportunities the region has to offer.

Regional Governance Group Chair John Cronin was pleased with the findings in the report, which was based on feedback from representatives from local and city councils, the region’s economic development agencies, Environment Bay of Plenty and Priority One.

“The report acknowledges and substantiates the work that has been done to date and provides recommendations for the future direction. It brings to life what can be achieved when agencies and organisations work together,” Mr Cronin said.

“There are a range of projects and actions identified in the regional economic development strategy that apply across the region and to ensure we continue to build on our success to date we need some of these actions to be picked up and lead by the sub regions.”

Since its launch in 2008 Bay of Connections has developed an Aquaculture Strategy; a food strategy; is well underway with an energy strategy to capitalise on the opportunities for wealth and wellbeing through bio, solar and geothermal energy; and has completed a business case for the proposed Harbour Central Marine Precinct. The region is now looking at developing a forestry strategy, as well as working with the tourism and tertiary sectors on possible projects.

For further information go to www.bayofconnections.co.nz

ENDS

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