SMBI Economic Investigation Gets A Jump Start
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” module_id=”about” _builder_version=”4.4.5″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.4.5″ custom_margin=”||20px||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.4.5″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.4.9″]The Regional Jobs Committee is seeking to identify the strengths and opportunities of the islands (particularly Macleay and Russell Island) to target particular regional businesses to potentially relocate or set-up on the islands. The committee’s flagship project, the Championing Redlands Coast, has identified regional projects with a 2-6 year horizon which will have an impact on the access and liveability of the islands. Given the timing of the CRC, it is critical to kick off research to ensure the islands mature with (and take advantage of) these changes.
The RJC is investigating a targeted economic initiative to deliver a SMBI Economic Land Use Strategy which would seek to secure commitment from businesses to relocate or setup on the islands subject to the needs identified being met. The project is proposed in two stages:
Stage 1 – To identify the island’s economic strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to various industries and prepare a list of industries based of the ‘level of viability’ of such an industry operating on the island. The project will undertake a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats assessment of the islands and a matching this assessment to basic needs of relevant industries.
Committee member Rhett Bowlen says ‘the research piece will need to pick up on the strategic benefits of the islands, such as the proximity to the shipping channel or the number of passing recreation vehicles (potential for maritime repair or storage). We may find that the islands are strategically positioned to harvest marine crustaceans, or is suitably buffered to provide insect husbandry or agriculture.’
Stage 2 – The Regional Jobs Committee would seek to connect with emerging regional employers capable of relocation to the islands. We would need to understand case studies of worldwide initiatives of island economies such as manufacturing, agriculture, value add services.
The intent of the project is to consult with key private sector stakeholders and find out exactly what they need to bring their business to the islands. ie. Upgraded electricity, water, improved freight, new dedicated roads.
The committee has partnered with MP Kim Richards to undertake the preliminary research, with the initial reporting to be released in early July, 2020.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
