Rural economy can thrive with improved infrastructure and skills, Lords committee told

On a visit to the county, where they met representatives of business organisations, council leaders, business owners and local residents, the Committee heard of many success stories – from businesses developing night vision equipment to a food supply chain software provider – but also of the challenges facing further growth or the establishment of new businesses.

The Committee plans to make recommendations to government about measures which will help benefit the rural economy in England.

Chairman of the Committee Lord Foster of Bath said:

“As in many other parts of the country, Herefordshire’s rural economy is doing well, helped by close working between bodies such as the Council, Local Enterprise Partnership and the Chambers of Commerce. The planned new Engineering-focussed university in Hereford will provide further stimulus for growth. But the expansion of existing businesses and the establishment of new businesses is hampered by unreliable infrastructure, with a strong call for better mobile and broadband coverage.

“At the same time, we heard that agriculture remains the backbone of the rural economy but is also facing challenges not least in attracting new recruits with the technological skills now needed in the industry.”

Councillor David Harlow, Herefordshire Council Cabinet Member for Economy and Communications who took part in the roundtable discussion said:

“The Committee’s visit was a great opportunity to showcase local businesses and explain Herefordshire Council’s support and plans for future business development in the county.”

Notes to Editors

1. The full list of witnesses and business that the Committee visited can be found below:

Roundtable at Skylon Park:

Herefordshire Council
Hereford Enterprise Zone
The Marches LEP Business Board
Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Arctic Circle Ltd
Herefordshire Rural Hub

Business Visits

KGD Limited - KGD is a privately owned, UK based, Package Manufacturer with in-house Design, Manufacturing, Inspection, Painting and testing facilities.  Established in 1982, it employs 100 people and works for UK Industrial customers and International Engineering & Oil multinationals on projects from £5,000 to over £15 million.
ATN Europe Limited -  part of ATN International, a leading manufacturer and developer of prevision Night Vision optics and Thermal Imaging. In two decades since its founding, ATN has developed the largest selection of low light optical devices that cater to consumers, law enforcement and military clients. 
Muddy Boots Software - With over 20 years’ experience in the fresh food sector Muddy Boots has developed a suite of software solutions that allows data to pass up and down supply chains, providing insight that enables customers to instantly view, manage and report on the quality, traceability, and compliance of their products and suppliers.
Westons Cider Mill – An independent, family owned cider mill which has been operating on its farm in Hereford for over 135 years.  Westons is known nationally for its cider range including Stowford Press, Henry Westons and Old Rosie. It uses methods that nurture the environment and encourage the local flora and fauna to thrive.
Naked Creative – A strategic communication, advertising & design agency.
Caplor Energy - Award winning renewable energy business designing and installing solar systems for business, communities and homes
Sun Velo - SunVelo runs different level cycling groups for all types of road cycling each day during the Majorca spring and autumn cycling seasons as well as being the leading UK tour operator for the annual Mallorca 312 sportive.