Growth strategy Key sectors could bring 72,000 new jobs to region

VER the next decade the West of England’s regional economy could add an extra 72,000 jobs across a few key sectors. The region’s leading politicians hope the economy will grow by a huge 28 per cent in 10 years, with thousands of new homes, better public transport and education.

- Alex SEABROOK Local democracy reporter

The Brabazon new town, which includes the planned YTL Arena, thousands of new homes alongside offices and a new train station, will be a key part of the region's future economy

Growing sectors include advanced manufacturing, digital and technologies, clean energy, and creative industries. Since 2014 there was a 52 per cent growth in digital and tech jobs and 82 per cent in creative jobs. Investors could help fund the growth of jobs in Al, cyber security, offshore wind, nuclear energy, aerospace, autonomous vehicles, and film and television.

A few areas will get extra focus as “growth zones’, such as the middle of Bristol and Bath, the Severnside industrial area, the Somer Valley including Midsomer Norton and Radstock, the “West Innovation Arc” which includes the new Brabazon district and Bristol’s North Fringe, and the North Somerset Growth Gateway between Westonsuper-Mare and Bristol Airport.

Helen Godwin, the Labour mayor of the West of England, said economic growth would “improve the lives of people across the region” Her new growth strategy, a sprawling and ambitious 120-page document, was approved by the combined authority on Friday, October 17.