Elmbridge Cabinet to unveil Enterprise Elmbridge Action Plan for 2025/2026

At the upcoming March Cabinet meeting, Councillor Kirsty Hewens, Portfolio Holder for Economy, High Streets, Parking, and Community Safety, will present the Enterprise Elmbridge Action Plan for 2025/2026. This plan aims to support businesses and enhance the vibrancy of our local high streets.

Councillor Hewens will also highlight the significant investment of over £100,000 made in 2024/2025. This funding has been used to deliver new dual recycling bins, street furniture, markets, and greening initiatives, ensuring the Elmbridge community can take pride in their local village parades and high streets.

Councillor Hewens looks back at her first year as Portfolio Holder:

“I am proud of the invaluable opportunities this role has provided. Engaging with our businesses, Business Improvement Districts, and local high street leaders has been instrumental in understanding the unique challenges and opportunities we face.

“The insights and feedback gathered have been crucial in bridging the gap between national economic trends and the realities experienced by our local businesses and high streets. Despite demonstrating resilience with vacancy rates below the national average, our high streets are not immune to the broader challenges affecting the UK.

“These challenges are both national and local in scope, including the cost-of-living crisis, increasing online spending, and rising business costs. 

“A recurring theme in my meetings with local businesses has been the strength derived from our collaborative efforts to enhance footfall, develop new events, improve greening, and create locally responsive parking solutions. These are the actions you will see in the 2025/2026 Enterprise Elmbridge Action plan.”

We are determined in our efforts to continue our work in support of a thriving local economy. The 2025/2026 action plan includes:

• Launching a new 30-minute free parking offer to support our village high streets
   
• Supporting Esher and Weybridge businesses to explore how Business Improvement Districts (BID) can improve their trading environment
   
• Continuing to support young people into work and training through the Youth Hub with our partners at Brooklands College and Runnymede Borough Council. Over 500 young people have been supported to date.
   
• Supporting our high street independents and small-medium businesses to decarbonise with green business grants.
   
• Investing in and supporting 15 independent retailers to improve the look and feel of their shops with business boost grants

Councillor Hewens remains committed to a thriving Elmbridge:

“As we move forward, we remain committed to helping our high streets evolve and adapt. I am excited to continue this important work throughout 2025 and beyond, ensuring our local economy thrives."