Okehampton needs new industry and business - now

I read the news about Devon County Council's £1.8 million 'boost to Okehampton's economy' with mixed feelings. There were lots of nice words, and optimistic posturing... but no clear idea how we are to get businesses to re-locate to the town.

Let's go back...

In the mid 1980s the Exeter advertising agency I worked for were commissioned to produce a set of leaflets designed to encourage (you guessed it) businesses to move to West Devon. My job was to write the text.

I sat for a few days trying to come up with reasons why anyone should bring business to the area - apart from the fact it's one of the nicest places in England to live. Transport? We DO have the A30, but it's a long way from industrial centres. The railway? Should it happen (and I'm a great fan) it could - just could - tip the balance for some businesses. A work force? Maybe, but with no long tradition of industrial excellence. Devon is still perceived as essentially agricultural by anyone east of Bristol.

So the challenge facing those such as councillors Christine Marsh and Will Mumford is moving beyond the fine words - and they are all well-meant and splendidly enthusiastic - to the practicalities of attracting real businesses with real employment needs on to the serviced plots the County Council can create.

Is there a 'Relocation Tsar' on the Council? What actions are being taken?

Well, councils, if you want the help an old hand who's been round this particular challenge before, and whole-heartedly believes in the cause of getting Okehampton back up and running, give me a shout!