The forum, which meets three times a year to hear the local issues affecting businesses, was chaired by Cemex UK’s Dan Mann, who has taken over from Karen Shuter after she stood down from the role last October.
As well as providing an opportunity for firms to share any concerns or barriers to growth, the event also heard from three major figures connected to the local economy and decision-making.
Sara-Jane Watkins, principal and CEO at WCG, told the meeting that the group had come of out of financial intervention from Government after delivering a significant surplus, at the same time as supporting thousands of learners including 16 to 18-year-olds, apprentices, adult learners and degree level students.
That was followed by an update from Rugby MP John Slinger who said the Spring Statement had provided solid foundations for the economy.
He said: “Internationally, we’re in an extremely volatile moment and this instability affects us all.
“That’s why economic stability at home is vital. After the Spring Statement, Rachel Reeves made clear that the forecasts were prepared before the recent Iran attack, but the UK is better placed to absorb shocks because we have imposed discipline on the public finances and reduced borrowing.
“Locally, Rugby has a strong economy with wages slightly above median and unemployment slightly below. I’m also pleased Rugby Borough Council has commissioned detailed work on its economic development strategy because having that understanding of the local economy is essential.
“From my point of view, I want strong relationships with local employers, the college, the council, and the Chamber. Government is committed to economic growth, and I will do everything I can to ensure Rugby plays its full part.”
Matthew Fletcher, the economic development manager at Rugby Borough Council, said there has been positive progress in recent months.
He said: “We’re speaking directly with developers to influence what gets built in Rugby. Traditional large warehouse units aren’t meeting current business needs, especially when many local firms require smaller units or mid‑sized spaces of around 25,000 sq ft. Developers often avoid these because they prefer big anchor tenants signing 10 to 15‑year leases.
“But in Rugby, I’ve already spoken to three major investors who are now looking to develop precisely this kind of space.
“Importantly, the biggest economic impact comes from local firms. If small businesses grow by one or two employees, or increase turnover by 50 to 100 per cent, that has a huge effect locally because they employ local people, upskill local people, and use local suppliers. We’ll absolutely be focusing on them.
“In the town centre, we’re using new powers to require long‑term vacant landlords to bring their units back into use. Prezzo reopening is a direct result of that.
“We’ve identified several properties for action and we’re making good progress.
“There has also been the positive news about Aldi coming into the town centre and we’ve also been consulting on the future of Rugby Central.
“On top of that, we’re about to launch a major shopfront‑improvement grant scheme, initially focused on High Street and Sheep Street, which will help existing businesses and tidy up vacant units.”
Dan Mann said: “I was delighted to chair my first meeting and to receive updates from three key figures from our area. Rugby is in a strong position to grow and it’s vitally important to maintain this dialogue between business, politicians, local authorities and education to make sure we achieve our potential.”
