Otago Regional Economic Development Strategic Framework endorsed

Media release on behalf of the Otago Mayoral Forum:

The Otago Mayoral Forum has endorsed the first regional economic development strategic framework for the region.

This activity was supported by the region’s Mayors, Regional Council Chair, and Chief Executives through an initial $60,000 contribution ($10,000 per organisation). The Provincial Growth Fund matched this commitment dollar for dollar. This combined funding enabled the development of the Otago Regional Economic Development Strategic Framework.

The new Otago Regional Economic Development Strategic Framework is designed to support effective collaboration and provide guidance for decisions on economic development proposals and projects to ensure that they are in the best interests of and produces the best outcomes for the Otago regional economy.

It will also help stakeholders have confidence that any initiatives progressed reflect local aspirations and expectations and are strategically aligned to New Zealand’s future direction.

The focus has been developed following engagement with key regional stakeholders, government representatives, Kāi Tahu and key stakeholders across the region.

Chair of the Otago Mayoral Forum, Mayor Tim Cadogan, says it is pleasing to see support for a regional development framework.

“There is agreement and acknowledgment that a regional economic development effort is required, both to ensure a regional overview of cross-cutting opportunities and challenges, and to support local efforts where relevant.

“In developing a framework for the region, we will be able to ensure we have a tool to help us identify projects and activities for economic development across Otago that will provide the greatest regional benefits.

“The framework includes a focus on a few key areas which impact us all, like enabling greater connectivity between districts, across the region, nationally and internationally, growth in productivity; access to talent; improving availability, choice and quality of housing; and improving sustainable use of the regions assets. This highlights the importance of an on-going role for the Otago Regional Economic Development working group to connect the region and help engage with Government.”

The immediate task for the Otago Regional Economic Development working group will be to engage with councils and central government agencies on immediate areas of support for regional economic development.

ENDS.

To view the framework, please click here.