Issue - meetings

To receive a presentation outlining the regeneration and economic development priorities for 2020/21 including suggestions for the work programme 2020/21.  Short briefing note attached

Cabinet Members and Officers will be asked to leave the meeting after this item. 

Sarah Cary (Executive Director Place) gave a presentation on the Council’s priorities in the area of regeneration and economic development.

She highlighted the following: 

·         The key priorities from the Council Corporate Plan: creating a lifetime of opportunities in Enfield – good homes in well connected neighbourhoods, safe healthy and confident communities, an economy that works for everyone.

·         In August Enfield had 52,000 people on furlough which was 35-40% of the working population.  Levels of unemployment are predicted to be very high.  It could be 1 person in 3.

·         In Town Centres footfall was still well below pre-covid averages at 60-80%.

·         Enfield was preparing for future possible local lockdowns.

·         Following 10 years of austerity and high levels of deprivation it was a difficult time for the Council with lots of demands on services. 

·         Key strands of regeneration and economic development activity included: 

Ø   To help residents and businesses to recover from the pandemic and to support them during the recession.

Ø   To improve the borough offer for employment and training, particularly for those economic inactive who are seeking employment.

Ø   To implement the Housing and Good Growth Strategy, including housing development programme and estate regeneration.

Ø   To progress the development of Enfield’s local plan in the context of significant planning reform.

Ø   To agree and approve a Cultural Strategy and an Economic Development Strategy.

Ø   To continue to deliver on Meridian Water.

·         A list of suggestions for the work programme was set out.