Dales MP visits Peak District business centre

Derbyshire Dales MP Patrick McLoughlin, visited Hathersage Hall Business Centre last week to find out first-hand how the seeds of growth are taking root in the Derbyshire economy.

The business centre opened four years ago and has attracting a range of knowledge–based companies to the area – bringing forty new jobs to Hathersage.

Mr McLoughlin was impressed by the good communications and energy efficiency of these converted listed buildings.

He commented: “The Government is taking steps to improve the delivery of faster broadband in order to further encourage footloose companies to set up in the countryside with the attendant benefits they bring to the rural economy.”

One of the principle aims of the business centre has been to bring better paid jobs to the North Peak.

During his visit, Mr McLoughlin met with a number of the resident business owners and heard from Peter Booth, managing director of CQM training and facilitators to the food industry.

The MP heard how planning delays extending over several years, the inflexible conditions of EU grant schemes and the conservation requirements of Natural England have all been met to establish an attractive location for companies.

He said: “Developments such as Hathersage Hall Business Centre bring vital new life and energy to rural communities.

“The Government’s measures to reform the planning system and improve broadband delivery will assist these important sources of new jobs and their contribution to the success of the rural economy.”