Two thirds of Redbridge companies surveyed consider that Redbridge is a good location for business. The Council continued to work on the issues that local companies said mattered - developing the Borough so it is attractive for business, making sure there were enough people with the right skills and training and taking advantage of the opportunities that the 2012 Olympics will bring.

The Council, businesses and partners have been developing an Employment and Skills Strategy to increase employment, training and job opportunities, looking particularly at the most deprived parts of the Borough. This should be launched soon.

Vibrant, dynamic and economically viable town centres are important for business growth and success. Ilford, Gants Hill, Barkingside, South Woodford and Wanstead now all have successful business partnerships to provide a strong voice for local businesses. In Hainault local businesses and the Council worked together to win £350,000 from the London Development Agency for further improvements to Hainault Business Park.

 “We want to make the most of the business opportunities from the London 2012 Olympics and it’s really good the way the Council is helping us find out what to do to apply for contracts and submit tenders to bring in business.”

Bob Lock, Maypole Press, Hainault Business Park.