By 3 News online staff
A consortium of Canterbury leaders and authorities have come together to set a new economic path for the region's post-quake era to make the most of its workforce and safeguard its way of life.
All of the region's mayors and the Environment Canterbury chair are working together on the Canterbury Regional Economic Development Strategy which was released today by Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce.
The plan, which is the culmination of work from 11 local authorities within Canterbury and numerous other groups and industries, would give the region a singular voice to promote itself and lobby the Government.
Mayoral Forum chair Dame Margaret Bazley says with the rebuild reaching its apex, it is the right time to make the most it. "Canterbury's mayors are acting now to build on the current momentum and ensure the long-term economic prosperity and social wellbeing of the region.
"The earthquake rebuild is driving the region's growth, but so are agriculture and manufacturing. The fortunes of Christchurch as the region's major city, and its agricultural hinterland, are interdependent. When one does well, so does the other," she says.
It has come up with seven programmes which it thinks will help the region including digital connectivity, value-added production, freshwater management and irrigation infrastructure and a regional visitor strategy.
The regional transport network is also a major focus given 91 percent of South Island freight is moved by road and puts pressure on the region's 14 state highways.
Dame Margaret says Canterbury's population is older and aging faster than the general population and only three territorial authorities look likely to grow faster than the national average.
A shortage of skilled workers in the future has also been indicated with the region having the lowest unemployment rate.
"If we want to sustain our economy and way of life, we have to make the most of the workforce we have now – and that includes newcomers, migrants and older workers," she says.
Mr Joyce says the time is right to think beyond the rebuild.
"Many doubted we could collectively pull together a big enough workforce for the rebuild but we've done that and now we are committed to ensuring Canterbury remains the engine room of the South Island economy," he says.
He believes if the strategy is executed well, it will help ensure the region's future.
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