Nurturing Growth 2020-2025

We aim to deliver a great place to live and work in Epping Forest district.

Our economy is vibrant and diverse, based in a region that is successful and thriving and located between the 2 international economic powerhouses of London and Cambridge.

Taking these and the other key issues that have been identified, our vision is for a future economy that reflects the aims and aspirations for all those who live and work in our district.

Read our economic policy

• Nurturing Growth 2020-2025 (pdf 2MB)

Key priorities

• Promote our vibrant, diverse and resilient high streets and town centres
• Support rural areas to grow and thrive
• Make our district an attractive place for entrepreneurs and businesses
• Deliver 21st century infrastructure for business growth
• Exploit opportunities, developments and investment from outside the district
• Build and grow partnerships with key stakeholders
• Provide residents with opportunities in education, skills and training opportunities

Nurturing Growth key workstreams

High streets and town centres

The district differs from many others as, rather than having one main urban area, it is made up of a range of market towns. Strong competition from online retailing. Town Centres are looking to diversify to offer more leisure and more employment space.

Supporting our rural economies and communities

Many of our residents live in rural areas. Innovation in our glasshouse industry is continuing. Community and pubs / shops are important. Superfast digital connectivity and integrated public transport systems are important rural priorities.

Skills and employment

Our local economy comprises mainly micro businesses. Construction is the biggest employer. We will support stronger links with education, training providers and local businesses via the newly established advisory board and set up a skills charter to support local growth and employment.

Partnerships that deliver for the Epping Forest district

We will create new opportunities with Local Enterprise Partnerships, partners and local stakeholders. We will set up an economic board to connect businesses with infrastructure provider local councils and large scale businesses.

Infrastructure and transport

There is a need for a robust transport strategy. We will work with partners to deliver an integrated transport plan for the district and Harlow and Gilston Garden Town. We will also support the Essex + Herts Digital Innovation Zone (DIZ) and the DIZ delivery plan.

A place for entrepreneurs and business start ups

Entrepreneurial spirit is a key feature of our local economy. We aim to setup a small business charter to encourage large firms to support local businesses to bid for contracts and agree prompt payment to support cash flow.

Tourism and visitor economy

Our district has a wide range of activities / attractions. From the Epping Ongar Railway to the Olympic white water centre to historic Waltham Abbey. Our mix of things to do with great places to eat and drink makes our towns and villages a great destination for visitors.

Want to find out more?

For more information contact the Economic Development Team:

• Email economicdevelopment@eppingforestdc.gov.uk