WHAT makes for a successful city region? Government, industry, geography, opportunity – all play their part but just as important are the people themselves.
Aberdonians have a reputation for being glass half empty types. It’s true to say the North-east has suffered an economic shock over the last few years and many people and businesses have been affected. However, while times were good, we suffered from inertia borne of complacency and still found reasons to talk things down.
Meantime other city regions in the UK and further afield were moving forward, re-inventing themselves, replacing old industry sectors, embracing culture, creating modern city centres where people wanted to be. And talking themselves up, often way beyond the reality of their offer.
They did this because they had to. Their very futures depended on it.
These are critical moments for Aberdeen. There are some emerging signs that we have seen the worst of the downturn and good momentum has been built towards our economic renaissance vision. If this is to continue and we are to deliver the legacy we want for future generations, there can be no slipping back.
We have an economic diversification plan that is gathering pace, our strength in innovation is being further developed through city region deal investment and there is real progress with the city centre masterplan. Most of all, we are beginning to demonstrate confidence and ambition, sending out the message that we are open for business.
A recent survey undertaken during North East Business Week told us that three out of four respondents didn’t feel involved in the future economic success of the region which is concerning as it isn’t just the role of our local authorities and Opportunity North East to deliver a better tomorrow. We all have a responsibility to play our part.
So we are providing a way in which people can get engaged; people of all ages, experiences, sectors and backgrounds across the North-east business community. People who might not otherwise get the chance to have their say.
We want to tap into their skills and experience and develop business cases for a raft of projects ranging from how best to galvanise a new generation of independent retailers at the heart of our town centres to what is needed to create a successful Capital of Culture bid. This is the Chamber and its partners at the vanguard of positive change.
Russell Borthwick is chief executive of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce
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