Ensuring Hampshire continues to be a great place to live, work, play and visit for decades to come relies on a strong economy, across both our local communities and wider regional footprint. 

Hampshire County Council is uniquely placed to help influence, enable and advocate on behalf of Hampshire residents to attract investment to our region, promote research and innovation, create jobs and develop a workforce equipped with the skills to meet the needs of industry and business for many future generations. 

We also play a vital role in bringing together key partners and businesses to help ‘join the dots’ and collectively address the economic challenges facing our area. 

Supporting economic development across the county and securing economic and social prosperity for Hampshire residents are a big priority. 

Skills and employment opportunities are of course key. The county council has invested in the University of Southampton Science Park’s Catalyst Programme - to accelerate science and technology developments in green, clean and digital business and industry in the county, and signed a Civic University Agreement to underline our commitment to supporting residents to access to the excellent education and training opportunities provided by the county’s four world-class universities and successful network of outstanding regional colleges and vocational training providers. 

Our vision for a prosperous local economy has also provided a strong foundation for our ambitious devolution proposals, setting out new powers and funding that could come into our area. If successful, as well as giving local people more say on local issues, devolution could draw in Government investment of around £1.14 billion to boost our economy and jobs in Hampshire. 

Whatever the future may hold, serving Hampshire residents will always be our business, and we are absolutely committed to ensuring Hampshire remains a fantastic county in which to live, work, visit and play. 

Cllr Rob Humby
Leader
Hampshire County Council