News In The Hebden Bridge List

Calderdale MBC Responds To Economic Concerns

Calderdale Councillors are considering setting up a taskforce to respond to the current downturn in the economy. The group would be made up of members from each main party. They would be advised of any key developments, make recommendations on the way forward and provide leadership to any economic issues as they arise.

The proposal will be discussed by members of Cabinet when they meet on Monday, December 8.

A report to Cabinet explains that current conditions mean many companies are finding it increasingly hard to fund the development of their business. At the same time rising unemployment and failing house prices for customers has led to an impact on customer demand.

More locally, the Leeds City Region is awaiting the outcome of potential changes at both Bradford & Bingley and HBOS.

An economic taskforce could help the Council to show leadership by co-ordinating its own services to tackle particular issues. This could include:

• Using investment to develop major community projects
• Developing an approach to mortgage and repossession issues
• Reviewing people’s ability to pay for care treatment
• Support people who have been made unemployed
• Highlight issues around energy efficiency and affordable warmth

Councillor Stephen Baines, Leader of Calderdale Council, said:
“There is a recognition of the role that the public sector can play in branding and marketing Calderdale, investing and reviewing processes to benefit local business, and therefore the local community.

“The Council is already working with Yorkshire Forward to look at a number of these issues and to develop a geographical programme for the next three years. There are also opportunities for the Council to draw down funding from the European Regional Development Fund.”

Councillor Amanda Byrne, Portfolio Holder for Community Services, said:
“Business growth is crucial to the prosperity of Calderdale. It will impact not only on local businesses, but also the people who live here.

“The pace of current economic change and the possible impact on local people means the Council needs to be in a position to speedily consider action to address new circumstances.

“The creation of an economic taskforce would help the Council and its partners highlight local issues and develop local approaches and solutions to problems.”