The West and North Yorkshire Chamber supports new measures to boost business growth and infrastructure in the region
West Yorkshire: The West and North Yorkshire Chamber is excited about new measures. They believe expanding airport capacity and improving transport will help businesses thrive. This shows a brighter future is possible.
However, the Chamber wishes more focus was on Yorkshire and the North. They want to see plans for Northern Powerhouse Rail and a new railway station in Bradford. This would highlight the North’s importance in Britain’s growth.
Mark Casci, the Chamber’s head of policy, found the Chancellor’s proposals encouraging. He noted that after tough months, it was nice to see positive announcements for the economy. But he believes more commitment to Northern Powerhouse Rail is essential.
Casci emphasized that the government must act quickly on these announcements. The Chamber’s comments come after a drop in business confidence following the Chancellor’s budget.
In a recent survey, many businesses reported expecting lower profits due to tax increases and wage hikes. This has led to hiring freezes and investment delays.
Taxation is now the biggest cost pressure for businesses, with labor costs and inflation also concerning leaders. Casci mentioned the impact of HS2’s cancellation and the need to avoid broken promises.
He also highlighted the ongoing struggles with rising costs. Reforms in business rates, better export support, and a suitable employment rights package could help ease these challenges.
