Wyre Forest scheme highlighted in national report on councils' economic impact
News release issued:
A pioneering planning scheme that has brought £25 million of investment to Kidderminster has been featured as a case study in a major national report on how councils drive economic growth.
The Local Government Association's (LGA) new report, "A Force for Growth", highlights how councils across England contribute £117 billion annually to local economies and could unlock a further £276 billion through place-based industrial strategies.
Wyre Forest District Council's approach to the South Kidderminster Enterprise Park (SKEP) is showcased in the report as an example of innovative local leadership that has enabled economic development to happen quickly while protecting the environment.
The council introduced a Local Development Order (LDO) for the SKEP in 2012, simplifying the planning process for businesses wanting to locate or expand in the area along Stourport Road and Worcester Road. The streamlined approach allowed certain employment developments to go ahead without full planning permission, making it faster and easier for businesses to invest.
The LDO was extended several times due to its success. When it came to an end in 2021 it had been used by 17 businesses and developments, generating around £25 million of economic investment. This included bringing defunct sites, such as the old British Sugar factory, back into use.
The LGA report explains how Wyre Forest saw potential in the area after an initial bid for national Enterprise Park status was unsuccessful. Rather than accepting the setback, the council used local policies to implement the LDO, giving businesses greater flexibility while balancing economic development with protecting natural resources that support the district's tourism industry.
Councillor Dan Morehead, Wyre Forest District Council Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Planning and the Green Agenda said:
"We're proud to see our work at South Kidderminster Enterprise Park recognised nationally as an example of how councils can drive local economic growth.
"The Local Development Order was about removing unnecessary barriers for businesses while maintaining proper standards. By taking a flexible, local approach, we were able to attract significant investment that has created jobs and opportunities for our residents.
"This LGA report confirms what we've always known – that councils are essential to delivering economic growth. We understand our local economy, we know what businesses need, and we can act quickly when given the tools and flexibility to do so."
Read the LGA report "A Force for Growth: Spotlighting the role of councils in enabling inclusive economic growth".