Regeneration chief seeks 'great minds' to help Hartlepool flourish as he sets out vision for jobs and investment

Cllr Paddy Brown, an independent councillor who is part of the coalition leading Hartlepool Borough Council, was elected by councillors to be the chair of the Economic Growth and Regeneration Committee for the coming year.

Cllr Brown has now outlined steps he wants to take in the position to help support businesses in the town, including bringing in “great minds” to help the town flourish.

The Throston ward representative has said his first act in the role will be to set up forums to discuss developing policies for small business support, local wealth building and attracting large employers to the town.

Posting on social media, Cllr Brown said: “As I’ve said before, the council doesn’t have all the answers to the problems our town faces and we have some great minds out there in our businesses, communities, schools etc.

“So my first act in the role is to set up forums where we can discuss and develop policy [in the listed three areas of regeneration].

“The forums will be a place for us to listen to ideas and share expertise around specific issues and areas alongside experts and council officers to offer advice.”

He also thanked residents for electing himself and fellow independent Cllr Peter Jackson in the Throston ward in the local elections, and thanked councillors for supporting him as new chair of Economic Growth and Regeneration Committee.

Cllr Brown added he is keen to hear from residents on what can be done to improve Hartlepool as part of the forums.

He added: “I would love to hear from the people of our town about what WE can do to improve and regenerate Hartlepool.

“I know we can achieve great things when we work together.”

It comes after Hartlepool Borough Council’s annual meeting last week, held at the Borough Hall, saw leadership and committee positions confirmed for 2021/22.

It was agreed earlier this year to change the name of the “Regeneration Services Committee” to “Economic Growth and Regeneration Committee”, after it was reviewed following the council senior management restructure.

Councillors unanimously backed keeping the “invaluable” committee and giving it a rename, adding it allows a dedicated place to discuss such issues.

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