Key partners have presented a major report to Ministers in Westminster today following news last month that Pfizer will exit its research and development facility in Sandwich by the end of 2012.
The Sandwich Economic Development Task Force, including representatives from Dover District Council, delivered its first Report to Ministers this morning. The report, requested by the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Minister of State for Universities and Science, makes important recommendations regarding the site, which will stimulate business growth and employment in Sandwich and East Kent.
The Task Force has made significant progress, and has identified key phases of action, moving from an immediate focus on preserving jobs and activity on site, through to the longer-term delivery of wider opportunities for East Kent.
The Task Force, chaired by KCC, recommends focusing activity in three main areas:
Firstly, action must be taken quickly to support the staff, contractors and communities directly affected by Pfizer's exit.
Secondly, it is recommended that Government designates the Sandwich, Manston and key sites within the East Kent Assisted Area as a Research, Innovation and Technology Zone (RITZ).
Thirdly, these incentives need to be supplemented by investment in critical infrastructure (particularly improvements to rail connections), jobs and skills to support substantial economic growth. The creation of an East Kent Recovery and Growth Package is therefore recommended, to add value to the RITZ, building on Assisted Area status.
Cllr Paul Watkins, Leader of Dover District Council said: "DDC has been working hard with partners, including KCC, to engage with Government and with Pfizer to identify solutions for recovery and growth and how best to support local employees, families and communities. It is vital that early action is taken to maximise the potential of the world-class facilities at the Pfizer site, and we are very pleased that DDC has been actively participating in the delivery of this first Report to Ministers, and we continue to work together for the future."
