Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (DLEP) used its annual conference at Bournemouth University to announce ambitious plans to double Dorset’s economy.
Other key aims announced at the conference includes plans to create 80,000 jobs, addressing the aging population and proposals for new aquaculture schemes, outlined by Atlas Elektronik UK.
Aquaculture involves fish farming and processing, two industries which are helped by the county’s unique location and geographical qualities.
They are working together with the Dorset Chamber of Commerce to craft the new Local Industrial Strategy (LIS).
Chairman of DLEP Jim Stewart said:
“If we want government to invest in Dorset, they have to know we are an ambitious county.
“We have an aim over the next 20 years to double the size of the economy, taking us up to £36bn in terms of productivity and output and creating 80,000 jobs.
“We want a thriving local economy that is sustainable, innovative and inclusive.”
Delegates including the new leader of Dorset Council, Cllr Spencer Flower and Chief Executive of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, Graham Farrant spoke of their hopes for the future.
The industries being targeted for the future include high-tech, agri-tech, creative and aquaculture.
For more information on the Local Industry Strategy check out our overview, here.