Strategic Partnership listens to local businesses

South Somerset Together, the Local Strategic Partnership (LSP) for the area, is actively seeking out the involvement of local businesses in its quest to improve the quality of life for local people.

As a first step, representatives from four leading Wincanton companies met with Paull Robathan, Chairman of the partnership, and the Economic Development team from South Somerset District Council, over breakfast at Holbrook House Hotel in Wincanton on 18 October.

The event was designed to help the partnership and the council to understand the employers perspectives on a number of issues outlined in the People's Plan which sets out a vision for the future of Wincanton and the surrounding area.

Paull Robathan said; "Business will only stay in the area, or new businesses move here, if the quality of business life is high and is compatible with their corporate objectives.

"South Somerset Together is a partnership between the district and county councils, primary care trust, the police and other public and voluntary sector bodies together with local business to help improve the quality of life for everyone in the area.

"Up to now, I don't think that we have sufficiently connected with businesses as residents. This meeting marks a step forward in the process of improving the dialogue between the public and private sectors.

"Listening to what major employers say about the community within which they operate is the only way to ensure that we get the right local services in the right place at the right time for them and their employees."

South Somerset Together is actively seeking new opportunities to meet with business people throughout south Somerset.

Businesses or individuals who want to find out more about the work of South Somerset Together can go to www.southsomersettogether.org.uk or contact Helen Rutter at South Somerset District Council on 01963 435012.