As published in the Ripley & Heanor News, 22nd August 2013
We’ve had very good news on the economy recently, with the announcement of 0.6% during the last quarter, and a further fall in unemployment.
It’s great to see that we’ve had growth in all major sectors of the economy – manufacturing and construction are of particular importance in Amber Valley.
When I was elected I said that reducing unemployment would be one of my main priorities. I’ve already been helping start-ups and expanding businesses to help create jobs. Locally unemployment now stands at 2.7%, down from 2.9% last month and from 4.1% at the time of the last General Election.
I’m pleased to say that I’ll be holding the first Amber Valley Jobs Fair on 6th September at Ripley Leisure Centre between 10AM and 4PM.
I’d encourage anyone looking for work or opportunities to come along – there’ll be plenty of local employers offering opportunities and training providers offering seminars on a variety of subjects.
It’s free to attend, and parking in the centre car park is free of charge for attendees. Trent barton customers can get half price bus travel via the jobs fair site. You may find out more about the fair or book a seminar place at www.ambervalleyjobsfair.co.uk.
Finally, I know that many of my constituents are concerned about the Borough Council’s Local Plan, the latest version of which is still out for public consultation. The plan includes two developments on green belt. I remain of the view that the level of housing growth is too high and brownfield sites need to be considered more carefully. I urge constituents to respond to the council before this Friday, 23rd August.