Over 750 companies across Cherwell had their say on the district’s business landscape and rated it highly as a place to trade.
Published: Wednesday, 17th April 2024
In November and December 2023, Cherwell District Council commissioned online and telephone surveys that allowed businesses to share how they want to grow and what they need to help them achieve their goals.
Survey results showed that over three-quarters of businesses rated the district as a good or very good location to do business. Over one-third said that performance had improved over the last 12 months, and 37 per cent believed this would continue in 2024.
The government-funded survey ran for over six weeks. It gathered information on the impacts of changing business conditions and views on skills, infrastructure, and sustainability. The survey also identified other factors affecting businesses, their potential growth and their ability to provide job opportunities to an increasing number of local residents.
Ian Boll, Corporate Director Communities, said: “It was exciting to see such a large and positive response from Cherwell businesses for this survey. We are dedicated to creating an enterprising economy that allows businesses to realise their potential through developing employee skills and encouraging innovation.
“This survey was a brilliant opportunity to hear first-hand from business owners and see where we can support local businesses to continue to grow and flourish. While identifying some challenges faced, the results were incredibly heartening and showed us the resilience and ability Cherwell businesses have to adapt to challenges and economic conditions.”
Findings from the Business Needs Survey will help the council shape the delivery of its 2024-25 UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Rural England Prosperity Fund projects, which include support for new and growing businesses, decarbonisation, and green skills training.
Full and summary survey reports can be viewed on the council’s website at www.cherwell.gov.uk/business-needs-survey