JOBS TO BE HIGHLIGHTED IN COUNCIL QUESTION TIME

10.03.55am GMT Tue 3rd Feb 2009

The issue of improving job prospects in Torbay is to be highlighted in questions at the Council meeting on Wednesday.

Councillor Steve Darling, the Liberal Democrat Group Leader, is asking the Cabinet member for Economic Regeneration, Transport and Planning Councillor Lewis two questions. They are:

i) "The Council is to be congratulated for entering talks with Marks and Spencer's to avoid the closure of their Simply Food store in Torquay Town Centre.

In the past 12 months can the Cabinet Member detail what talks the council have entered into to with any employers in Torquay town centre to protect jobs?"

ii) "Please provide an update on developments at White Rock, and in particular how successful the project is in attracting high quality jobs for the local community."

Speaking about his questions Councillor Darling said, "One of the key priorities for the Liberal Democrats is attracting quality full time jobs to Torbay. Never has such a priority been so needed, when the chill winds of recession are blowing through our high street. The two questions that I have asked on this issue highlight the twin track approach that the Council should be undertaking: firstly, protecting job prospects in our town centre, and secondly attracting high quality jobs through the development of business parks."