The Suffolk Public Sector Leaders Group (SPSL) is pleased to endorse the Suffolk Economy Strategy, a comprehensive plan to propel Suffolk’s economic growth and position the county at the forefront of the UK’s green evolution.
This Strategy, developed by the Suffolk Business Board through extensive collaboration and consultation with key stakeholders, aims to build a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable economy that supports local communities and contributes to the national economy.
The Suffolk Economy Strategy is designed to leverage Suffolk’s strengths in clean energy, agri-food, and logistics, integrating these core sectors with emerging opportunities in technology and innovation. The Strategy's vision is to establish Suffolk as an epicentre of clean technology convergence, supporting robust economic growth while ensuring that every resident can benefit.
Key Highlights of the Strategy
- High Growth Sectors: Suffolk’s leadership in clean energy, including offshore wind and nuclear projects, positions the county as a national hub for renewable energy. The agri-food and drink sector, already significant, is set to expand through sustainable practices and agri-tech innovation, while Suffolk’s ports and logistics sector remains a vital gateway for UK trade.
- Emerging and Value Growth Sectors: The Strategy identifies opportunities for expansion in life sciences, ICT and digital creative industries, and financial services, with a focus on integrating these sectors with existing strengths. Advanced manufacturing, health and social care, and the visitor economy are also prioritised for enhancing productivity and job quality.
- Tech Convergence: The Strategy emphasises the integration of digital, AI, and clean technologies across established industries to drive economic growth. Suffolk aims to become a leader in tech convergence, creating a dynamic environment where innovation thrives.
The Strategy includes a comprehensive investment plan, aiming to attract £4 of private investment for every £1 of public funding. Key elements of the plan focus on building a multimillion-pound pipeline of strategic projects to boost productivity, create jobs, and attract global companies to Suffolk.
Infrastructure and Skills Development
- Infrastructure Enhancement: The plan prioritises integrated growth planning to develop housing, utilities, and transport infrastructure. It includes initiatives for digital connectivity beyond 5G, and key transport improvements, including road and rail upgrades to connect growth corridors effectively.
- Talent Development: To meet the needs of Suffolk’s growing sectors, the Strategy outlines a robust framework for skills development, emphasising upskilling, reskilling, and collaboration between businesses and educational institutions to prepare the workforce for future opportunities.
Mark Pendlington, Chair, Suffolk Business Board, says:
“This Strategy is a blueprint for a prosperous and sustainable future. It reflects the views of our public and private sector leaders and underscores Suffolk’s role as a key driver of the UK economy. We are committed to building an environment where businesses can thrive, and residents can enjoy improved living standards. We are seeking an Epic Suffolk: Economic Well-Being, Productive, Inclusive and Clean.”
Councillor Neil MacDonald, Chair, Suffolk Public Sector Leaders Group, adds:
“This Strategy is a collective effort to ensure Suffolk not only grows but thrives. We are committed to harnessing our county’s strengths, from clean energy to digital innovation, to build an economy that is inclusive, resilient, and ready for the future. By working together with businesses, educators, and communities, we are laying the foundations for a Suffolk that continues to lead and inspire.”
The Suffolk Public Sector Leaders Group is committed to implementing this Strategy, ensuring Suffolk’s economic growth is productive, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable. This collective effort aims to secure Suffolk’s position as a leader in clean growth, innovation, and community prosperity.
Issued on behalf of Suffolk Public Sector Leaders
Suffolk Public Sector Leaders group is made up of county, district and borough councils, police, and medical chiefs.