As Cabinet Member for Economy at the Forest of Dean District Council, Cllr Johnathan Lane has a unique insight into the districts economic eco-system. This month he has taken over our Director blog slot and is sharing his thoughts on what makes the Forest of Dean stand out from the rest, and how we can capitalise on this to create sustainable growth.
The Forest of Dean is home to a dynamic and diverse economy, driven by a thriving network of small and micro-businesses across multiple sectors.
These range from retail, construction, and manufacturing to health and education, creating a vibrant economic landscape with no single dominant industry. This diversity is key to the region’s resilience and growth potential.
One of the district's standout strengths is its natural beauty. The beautiful forest, open space and outdoor recreational opportunities not only attract tourists but also make the Forest of Dean an ideal place for people to live, work, and raise families. Coupled with improving schools and an outstanding local university, the district is becoming increasingly attractive to young professionals and families.
The region is also seeing inward investment, with companies like Jones Food Co and DEEP establishing themselves in the area. These investments highlight the district's potential to become a hub for innovative industries like vertical farming, which align with its natural and agricultural strengths.
Furthermore, the Forest of Dean is well-positioned to benefit from the global shift toward localizing supply chains. With its strong foundation in manufacturing, the district is ready to support businesses looking to produce locally and reduce reliance on international suppliers. This positions the region for continued growth in the years ahead.
The Forest of Dean’s economic diversity, combined with its natural environment and growing educational infrastructure, creates an ideal setting for sustainable growth, inward investment, and long-term prosperity. With strong foundations in place, the district is primed to continue flourishing as a centre for innovation, small business, and skilled trades.