Free Trade Zones, new agricultural initiatives and even a Dorset bank were among the radical ideas floated at an event organised by business network group Wessex Entrepreneurs.
At a dinner at Blandford’s Crown Hotel, business people were urged to get involved with the creation of a Local Enterprise Partnership for Dorset.
The Government has called for Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) to be created across England, and has said that business people should take the lead.
An initial proposal last year for a Dorset was not successful, and councils and business leaders are now working on a new submission.
David Walsh, Economic Development Manager for Dorset County Council, said: “It is time for bold ideas, and among them are Free Trade Zones for ports and the airport, and rural/urban link-ups to increase Dorset food production and reduce carbon footprint.
“But whatever we want to achieve, now is the time to get together, punch our weight and speak up for Dorset.
“We should aim to give birth to more businesses in Dorset and help them grow.”
Tony Williams of Wessex Entrepreneurs said: “We have to do all we can to keep Dorset competitive – with the rest of the UK and with the world. The LEP framework gives business the chance to set the agenda, and one of the most important issues for the county is jobs.
“We are led to believe that the Government will welcome some bold thinking. What about supporting business in the county with a Dorset bank? Don’t laugh – it happens in Europe.”
Mr Williams also emphasised the need to retain the business advice service for Dorset currently offered by Business Link. All Business Link regional operations are to end in November this year, and the service will be reduced to an online information bank and telephone help line.
Said Mr Williams: “There is huge concern about the loss of the Dorset service, and we need to try to keep it alive in some form.”
Jonathan Morris, managing director of WSX Enterprise, which has delivered the Business Link service in Dorset, expressed his team’s determination to ensure that direct advice and back-up for company owners would still be at hand.
“In Dorset, small companies sustain the economy, and they are the ones who most need face-to-face advice and support,” Mr Morris said. “We are actively exploring potential partnerships to ensure that the necessary support will continue to be there.”
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