This week I have contributed to the debate on planning and business, and mentioned the enormous work local pubs are putting in to getting ready to re-open this coming weekend. It is important that the planning rules are sufficiently flexible to allow the huts and tents we have seen springing up, giving some of the areas greatest pubs the opportunity to increase their outside space, allowing more customers back.
I also raised the plight of the many beauty therapists in the area, who still do not have a date to re-open, alongside the yoga and Pilates studios. In many instances these are businesses run by women, employing women providing services enhancing the physical and emotional wellbeing of women. It does matter that we reflect on the need to get women playing their part in the economic recovery, which is tricky when so many remain prevented from going back to work.
The Enterprise M3 LEP held their AGM by zoom last week, and this week I have met with them virtually to talk about the economic recovery and how they can support local businesses. I am pleased with their commitment to their expanded area, all the way to the Southampton University Science Park at Chilworth, where they have made a significant investment. I have absolutely no doubt in their commitment to help stimulate a tech led recovery, making sure there are opportunities for up skilling and retraining by working with local FE colleges.
