Chamber Takes Business Issues to Council

The challenge of creating a strong profile for Borders businesses and shouting loudly enough for key UK players to take note was just one topic of discussion when Trevor Jackson, the Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce Chairman met up with council leader Euan Jardine this month.

Scottish Borders Council is seeking to work closely with businesses across the region as it strives to find routes forward with reducing central government grant and pressures forcing a rise in council tax.

“There are always solutions if we can work together,” said Mr Jackson. “It was good to meet with Euan and be able to discuss council concerns and represent Borders businesses in looking at how we can create and maintain growth in the Borders.

“We spoke about the profile of the region, our businesses and the many positive aspects we have to offer, and how it often feels like we have to travel to Edinburgh or London to simply have our voices heard.

“We also talked about the shortage of skilled labour, and how we can work together to make the Borders an attractive place for young people to stay. We have rural challenges around connectivity, but it was good to listen to the Council’s plans for creating an E-Sport ecosystem in the Borders, an example of developing skills in the younger generation that is not tied by geography.

“That was one of several examples of where we can work together to develop new ideas that bring people to the area, create economic benefit, and, crucially, help us to enthuse a strong young workforce.”