Better Future Forum - Working and Learning in the Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains City Council will convene an economic development forum titled the Better Future Forum, to consider the issues that impact on the growth of the local economy and on working and learning opportunities in the Blue Mountains.

To be held on July 29, the forum aims to bring together stakeholders from business, education, the arts and government to tackle the challenges confronting our economic future.

"Without change, the City of the Blue Mountains is facing a future of ageing population and static growth," said Blue Mountains Mayor, Clr Jim Angel.

"The challenge is finding the right balance between growth, lifestyle and environment. It is important to stimulate investment and create jobs but at the same time we must not compromise the environmental and social values that make the Blue Mountains so appealing."

The forum will look to answer key questions from the community endorsed City Vision and Map for Action 2000-2025, that will help ensure that the local economy is strengthened and diversified and the Blue Mountains is a model for sustainable business and industry.

"The ideas that come from the forum will be used to shape an economic development strategy for the region's future, starting with a five-year action plan." said Clr Angel.

Guest speaker at the forum is internationally renowned expert on urban planning, research and education, Professor Edward Blakely. Also participating will be The Hon. Bob Debus MP and Mr Phil Koperberg MP.

Further information about the forum can be obtained by contacting Bronwen Johnston, Economic Development Program Leader on 041 333 4101.

This item was posted in June 2008.