Bath and North East Somerset has joined the top 30 best areas in the UK out of 324 for creating an environment for sustainable growth.
An artist’s impression of how the Bath Quays development could look
The area comes in at number 27 out of 324 local authorities in the country for sustainable growth and dynamism by a new report from leading business and financial adviser, Grant Thornton UK LLP.
The Sustainable Growth Index tracks the success of the 324 local authority areas in England. As well as looking at traditional economic measures, the report also takes into account social indicators such as dynamism, inclusion, health, resilience and community trust.
Locally South Gloucestershire is ranked 29, Bristol 48 and North Somerset 134. Bath and North East Somerset was also ranked fifth highest in the country for its resilience and sustainability, which measures things like recycling rates and CO2 emissions, alongside planning applications and dwelling completions. The council was also ranked 21st in the community, trust and belonging categories.
Councillor Tim Ball, cabinet member for housing planning and economic development, said: “This index is a new way of measuring the success of an area and it takes into account more than just a place’s economic performance.
“I am pleased to see our area is in the top thirty but there is always more to do to continue to improve the area’s economy as well as residents’ wellbeing.
“Over the next four years I want to see us rank even higher as we work to improve people’s lives through a planned programme of priorities, including at Bath Quays, where our investment in new offices, infrastructure and homes will contribute positively to both the economy and to tackling the climate emergency.”
Currently major work is underway on Bath’s enterprise zone Bath Quays North and Bath Quays South to regenerate 98 hectares and create thousands of new jobs and homes, with a projected boost to the area’s economy by £620 million.
The council is dedicated to supporting all business development and success across Bath and North East Somerset, which includes the city of Bath, and the market towns of Keynsham, Midsomer Norton and Radstock.
Through the Business Growth service, the council funds business support programmes for new entrepreneurs and established SME businesses, supports sector networks, and helps both indigenous businesses and potential inward investors find workspace in the area.
