Covid-19 economic recovery plans from across Gloucestershire were reviewed last week by council leaders and GFirst LEP.

The meeting of the Gloucestershire Economic Growth Joint Committee on Tuesday looked at the plans to share best practice and look for recovery actions where joint work would be best to maximise Gloucestershire's economic recovery from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Leaders agreed that it was still very early days to plan long-term for economic recovery, but early county priorities are emerging.

Continuing work to make high streets and town centres safe and successful was agreed as a key priority right now alongside work to build public confidence so that people can support and work for Gloucestershire businesses safely.

Other emerging priorities included continuing support for growth in cyber and digital industries, simplifying planning and regulatory requirements to help business growth, support for green technology and businesses as well as promoting investment in green technology.

Focusing on support for aerospace and advanced engineering, developing training, education and skills, creating opportunities for people to re-train and develop their skills and help for young people were also seen as key areas for action.

Gathering accurate and current data across business sectors was important to plan development, as was close partnership between GFirst LEP and local authorities.

Leaders have tasked officers to develop a joint action plan to encompass the priorities where collaboration can make a difference, but all were keen to work across the county to build public confidence as lockdown restrictions ease.

On behalf of the leaders, committee chair Cllr Patrick Molyneux said: "We have some truly great businesses in Gloucestershire and they are facing the worst economic challenges for at least a generation. The council leaders and GFirst LEP are going to work as hard as we can to help in the coming months. Our plans will bring help, but some actions will take time to bear fruit.

"I would urge the great Gloucestershire public to do their bit and use our shops, our pubs and restaurants and support all our businesses where they can do so - safely of course. Let's shop local, eat local, buy local, do business local and give our economy a chance."