RESPONSE
We asked some Aycliffe business for their react ion to the Spring 2021 budget …
IAN BROWN , MANAGING DIRECTOR , EXCELPOINT
The relocation of the Treasury truly shows the ambition of the Government to level up the playing field and we can all look forward to a generation of investment , regeneration and economic growth like we ’ ve never seen before .
The creation of a freeport at Teesport is certainly exciting news for the region . It will create a gateway for international trade , encourage imports , attract new businesses to the region , see new job opportunities and investment , and enable the region to benefit from a wide range of tax reliefs .
Local organisations will benefit from the creation of new supply chain potential , distribution and service sector requirements , and it will contribute to the redevelopment and regeneration of the area . Historically , Teesside has experienced significant deprivation and the loss of many traditional industries has left its scars . It will be a great benefit to the local area , the North-East and the UK .
Elsewhere in the Budget , the job support scheme , furlough and investment in vaccinations and recovery plans is all good news because it demonstrates the Government ’ s clear commitment to get the country back on its feet and shows a clear focus on supporting both individuals and organisations .
Providing support incentives to employ staff will create an environment for businesses to grow without the pressure of a tax burden . It can then look to recoup over time . I do believe the Government has its strategy right .
In terms of the freeze on the personal tax regime , my view is that this is understandable and I believe it is a Government-led indicator that we are all in this together and all have a part to contribute .
My final reflection is that all of this presents the area with many opportunities and it is now up to the businesses and the people in our region to take advantage and maximise the benefits the region can derive from these announcements .
STEVE GILL , DIRECTOR , LEMONTOP CREATIVE
Being heavily involved in the drinks industry we have seen the strain on our customers and how they have had to adapt to not only leaving Europe but also dealing with the pandemic .
Although there have been millions given to policies including furlough extensions , business rates cuts and grants to the hospitality industry it does nothing for the independent brewers throughout the UK . These brewers desperately need tax cuts and support , otherwise the choice we used to have in pubs will no longer be there .
Like the high streets throughout the UK have the same shops , the pubs and bars will have to resort to stocking the same global drinks brands if we lose our smaller independent breweries .
Our local independent brewers and distillers and those in the supply chain need our support . Hopefully those living in Tees Valley will show their support and raise a glass to the future of Teesside and these wonderful local businesses .
An overview of the Budget would be different if you were talking to an accountant , but from someone who was born and bred in Middlesbrough this Budget is one of opportunity and growth , and it has created a buzz for the UK , and in particular the Tees Valley area , like never before .
When the announcement came through about the Treasury and freeport it was truly a proud and emotional experience .
Along with the investment into green energy , Teesside has now been well and truly announced to the rest of the world as a place to invest and build better futures for not only those on Teesside , or even the UK , but attracting talent from around the world .
The magazine for Aycliffe Business Park | 23