Agenda item

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet approve the West Norfolk Economic Strategy Action Plan 2026 – 2028.

REASON FOR DECISION:

To provide a clear, coordinated and deliverable framework for implementing the West Norfolk Economic Strategy, informing the Council’s resources and service plans alongside that of external partner to ensure that we deliver against the economic growth vision and priorities previously approved, that aligns with corporate, local and national priorities.

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The Regeneration and Development Panel had considered this report and supported the recommendations to Cabinet.

Councillor Ring introduced the report, reminding Members that they had previously agreed to adopt the Strategy.  Presented today was the action plan which set out how agreed objectives would be delivered.

The Regeneration Programmes Manager provided an overview of the Action Plan, explaining that it detailed specific projects and outlined how the Council would work in partnership to deliver the agreed actions. She noted that the Plan was extensive, reflecting the breadth of work underway, and confirmed that it would operate as a live document, supported by a monitoring framework and subject to annual review.

Councillor Rust referred to the proposed incubation spaces. It was explained that lessons learned, feasibility studies, and best practice—drawing on both local experience and examples from other areas—would inform delivery.

Councillor Ring advised that funding had recently been secured to reconfigure space at the King’s Lynn Innovation Centre (KLIC), increasing capacity.

Councillor de Whalley raised the issue of delivery beyond 2028. It was explained that, within the proposed unitary authority, King’s Lynn would remain the primary economic centre and continued growth would therefore need to be supported.

In response to a question from Councillor Lintern, it was explained that funding for the Active Travel Hubs was time limited. Should planning permission not be granted, alternative uses for the sites would need to be considered, with it noted that ground conditions could also affect site viability.

Councillor Squire welcomed the inclusion of hot-desking and bookable workspace at the library. She queried whether external partners referenced within the Action Plan had committed to delivery of the actions, and it was confirmed that they had. Councillor Squire also observed that some targets spanned multiple themes; it was explained that both primary outcomes and cross-cutting achievements could be considered as part of the monitoring process.

Councillor Squire welcomed the inclusion of hot-desking and bookable workspace at the library. She queried whether external partners referenced within the Action Plan had committed to delivery of the actions, and it was confirmed that they had.

Councillor Squire also observed that some targets spanned multiple themes and it was explained that both primary outcomes and cross-cutting achievements could be considered as part of the monitoring process.

Councillor Morley suggested that a Rural and Coastal Champion be appointed to ensure that these areas received focussed attention.

Councillor Rust referred to the Youth Advisory Board, and it was agreed that this group, along with initiatives such as Food for Thought and Five Dinners, would be included within the Action Plan.

With regard to the Housing Needs Assessment, the Economic Growth Officer and the Portfolio Holder for Planning and Licensing agreed to provide a further update to Members when additional information became available.

In response to a comment from Councillor Rust, it was agreed that additional Housing Associations could be incorporated into the Plan where appropriate.

Following a further comment from Councillor Lintern, it was agreed that reference to the Cultural Steering Group would be included.

Councillor Kemp addressed the Cabinet under Standing Order 34, highlighting the importance of the rural economy, particularly in relation to farming, food sustainability, and encouraging young people to engage with science, technology, and food production. She also referred to the need for investment in the Ferry, Nature Recovery initiatives, and progress in relation to Hardings Pits being designated as a Village Green. By way of update, Councillor de Whalley advised that the Village Green application was currently under consideration by Natural England.

Councillor Ring commended the Action Plan, noting that it demonstrated both the scale of activity being undertaken by the Council and its wider ambition.

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet approve the West Norfolk Economic Strategy Action Plan 2026 – 2028.

REASON FOR DECISION:

To provide a clear, coordinated and deliverable framework for implementing the West Norfolk Economic Strategy, informing the Council’s resources and service plans alongside that of external partner to ensure that we deliver against the economic growth vision and priorities previously approved, that aligns with corporate, local and national priorities.