Business views important to Shepway's development

Lib Dem Councillor Tim Prater has backed a questionnaire being sent to businesses across Shepway to find out more about their current and future plans.

The results will help Shepway District Council review land and premises in the area to ensure that the local economy is well placed to weather the worst of the current economic downturn and to flourish when it recovers. As well as focusing on land and premises, there will be an opportunity for businesses to comment on other factors currently affecting the success of their business.

The findings will also feed into the new Local Development Framework which will guide future planning decisions about the amount and type of development to take place locally, especially the balance between jobs and housing.

Lib Dem Cheriton Councillor, Tim Prater, commented:

"It's important that local businesses views are heard about the future of our district. What's good for businesses should also be good for residents.

"It's in all our interests to have a vibrant economy, backed with real respect for our local environment and heritage as tourism should play such an important part in our success here in Shepway."