Small businesses get big conversations with county council

Small business owners in Lincolnshire have been able to speak directly to council decision-makers on a range of issues that are affecting them.

Hosted by the Lincolnshire Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), representatives from businesses across the county took part in a round table discussion with county councillors and officers. The event was also attended by the National FSB chair, Martin McTague OBE, who provided context about issues affecting small businesses countywide.

Cllr Colin Davie, executive councillor for economy at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “Small businesses are the backbone of the Lincolnshire economy and we have been working with the FSB in Lincolnshire for some time now to make sure we create the right conditions for them to survive, thrive and grow.

“Hearing first hand from small businesses on trading conditions, how the rurality of our county affects them and what further support they need is incredibly valuable to us as a council. I know everyone who took part got a lot out of the session where we could talk honestly and openly about our shared ambitions. The views from the FSB members will also help to shape the future services delivered by our Business Lincolnshire Growth Hub.”

Katrina Pierce, business development manager for the Lincolnshire FSB, said: “In a county that is home to over 40,000 small and medium sized businesses, it is critically important that the county council is open to listening to the challenges and opportunities the precious businesses face. But listening is one thing; responding to the needs raised with targeted support, campaigns and events that directly benefit SMEs is what really shows the council cares, and I’m delighted that we have such a positive relationship with the authority that results in great outcomes for local firms.”
“Our members represented themselves, their locations and their sectors with care, passion and pride and I look forward to hosting more of these sessions in the future”.

Cllr Ian Carrington was also in attendance at the meeting. Cllr Carrington chairs the county council’s Environment and Economy Scrutiny Committee, who which recently endorsed Lincolnshire FSB’s ‘Future of the High Street’ report. 

He said, “The committee felt very strongly that given the challenges facing small businesses in Lincolnshire, liaising with organisations such as the FSB is absolutely crucial so that as a council, we can offer whatever support we can. Hearing from small businesses at this event really helped bring to life the realities of the challenges they face, but also the excellent work being done across the county.”