Could Powys become known for its strong, fair and green economy?

Powys County Council's Cabinet will be asked to approve a bold new economic strategy that sets out a long-term vision to create a stronger, fairer and greener economy for Powys.

At its meeting on Tuesday, 14 July, Cabinet will consider adopting the revised 'GROW Powys Economic Strategy 2026-2040', following a county-wide consultation with residents, businesses, partners, town and community councils and young people.

The strategy outlines how Powys can build on its strengths to create better-paid jobs, improve productivity, support business growth, attract investment and help young people build successful futures in the county.

The strategy focuses on seven key growth sectors:

  • Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering
  • Energy
  • Agriculture and Rural Resilience
  • Defence, AI and Cyber
  • Construction and Retrofit
  • Tourism, Culture and Events
  • Foundational Economy

The strategy's vision is built around the principles of:

  • Growth in key sectors of the economy
  • Resilience and adaptability of the environment
  • Opportunities for investment and innovation
  • Wellbeing through improved pay and learning

Consultation feedback showed strong support for the strategy's ambition to deliver a fairer, greener and more prosperous Powys, whilst also highlighting the importance of infrastructure, skills, environmental stewardship, tourism, agriculture, culture and locally rooted economic development.

Following the consultation, several changes have been made to the strategy, including strengthening the role of culture and events, providing clearer delivery phases, recognising the importance of planning through the Local Development Plan and committing to work with young people to produce a shorter, more accessible version of the document.

Cabinet Member for a More Prosperous Powys, Councillor Glyn Preston, said: "This strategy sets out an ambitious vision for the future of Powys. It is about creating the conditions for sustainable economic growth while protecting the things that make our county such a special place to live, work and visit.

"We want Powys to be a county where businesses can grow, where investment is attracted, where innovation thrives and where people can access good-quality, well-paid employment close to home."

Cllr Preston added: "One of the strongest messages we hear from our communities is that young people should not have to leave Powys to fulfil their potential. This strategy is about creating the opportunities, skills pathways and careers that allow future generations to build their futures here.

"The strategy recognises the enormous strengths we already have in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, renewable energy and emerging technologies. By working with our partners, businesses and communities, we can unlock that potential and build a more prosperous, resilient and sustainable Powys."

The strategy includes a range of ambitions for the period to 2040, including the development of advanced manufacturing, green energy and cyber sectors, support for farming and rural enterprise, investment in tourism and cultural events, strengthening town centres and improving opportunities for local businesses and communities.

Alongside the strategy, the council has also developed a supporting programme of more than 50 potential strategic and community projects designed to help drive economic growth across all parts of Powys.

If approved by Cabinet, the strategy will provide the framework for future economic development activity, investment opportunities and partnership working across the county to 2040.