Minutes:
(1) Enterprise update
The Chair invited Ed Jordan (WENTA) to provide an update on the Covid-19 recovery situation of the enterprise sector.
Ed advised that some small and medium businesses had received little or no Government funding support. Joblessness was a risk, particularly amongst younger people. Conversely, however, there were a number of new business start-ups, reflecting a growing entrepreneurial spirit, fuelled by a sense of vaccine optimism.
(2) Leisure/Culture/Hospitality update
The Chair invited Martha Lytton Cobbold (Knebworth House) to provide an update on the Covid-19 recovery situation of the leisure/culture/hospitality sector.
Martha advised that the sector had been pleased with the Government’s Roadmap, although many organisations had experienced difficulties in the interpretation of the guidance. It was difficult to forward plan as, for example, weddings involved not only the venue, but also catering, florists, photographers etc.
Martha commented that many parts of the sector had introduced excellent online engagement methods, but there was a growing impatience amongst the public for the ability to meet in person. For this to occur, there was a need to ensure that robust Covid-safety systems and protocols were in place. It may be the case for some parts of the sector that further Government financial support might be needed in order to sustain the viable re-opening of leisure, cultural and hospitality venues.
(3) Construction Industry update
The Chair invited Kevin Cowan (Mace Developments) to provide an update on the Covid-19 recovery situation of the construction industry.
Kevin stated that work on the SG1 project was continuing. Demolition work would be commencing soon, together with finalisation of the Section 106 Agreement and legal conditions. Once completed, work on the first phase of the SG1 scheme could commence in earnest.
Kevin advised that, in general terms, the construction industry had been robust over the past 12 months, and had incorporated Covid-safe working methods and procedures. He added that Mace was now close to the level of on-site productivity pre-pandemic, and he was positive for the future.
(4) NHS update
The Chair invited George Stephens (East & North Hertfordshire NHS Trust) to provide an update on the Covid-19 recovery situation of the National Health Service.
George advised that recovery had started, with less patients being hospitalised with Covid-19. Across the NHS, providers were looking at re-commencing “business as usual”, in tackling the backlog of cases placed on hold whilst resources were focussed on the pandemic. The NHS were employing new clinical support workers, and so he was pleased that the Town Deal included an Enterprise Centre, which he hoped could be utilised to support the training of NHS staff.
(5) Stevenage Old Town High Street
Councillor Sharon Taylor (Stevenage Borough Council) advised that the Council was working with businesses in Stevenage Old Town on a short-term recovery plan. The Council had received £78,000 from the Government to assist via the Reopening Safely scheme and was looking at a shop local scheme (with some ring-fenced funding) to help attract local demand. A consultation letter to be sent to Old Town businesses and residents was to be sent out shortly.