News release 18 July 2008

An engine built by Zytek, one of the world's leading suppliers of expertise in automotive control systems at its Engine Technology Centre in Repton will be on show at the official launch of South Derbyshire's Economic Development Strategy 2008 – 2012 on Monday. (July 21)

One of JCB's latest models will also be on show and guests will be able to visit displays mounted by a range of companies and organisations including the Federation of Small Businesses, Groundwork Derby and Derbyshire and The National Forest Company.

Over 100 delegates from South Derbyshire businesses and support organisations working in the district are due to attend the event, being held at Unit P141 on Tetron Point in Swadlincote.

Guests will hear Neil Bark, Managing Director of Central Joinery talk about his personal experience of the Business Navigator project, which provides free support to companies to help them identify and achieve potential savings and improve environmental efficiency. His company has won an award for the savings it made in energy use as a result of the project.

Everyone attending will be given a copy of the strategy document and Leader of South Derbyshire District Council Cllr Heather Wheeler and Chief Executive Frank McArdle will explain why it has been produced and what it is hoped will be achieved as a result.

Commenting on the document Cllr Wheeler said: "My vision is for South Derbyshire to become the economic 'jewel in the crown' of the East Midlands. The development and launch of this strategy mark the start of a journey.

"Business and partner organisations have enthusiastically contributed to its development to help establish a shared understanding of the issues and a joint vision for the future of South Derbyshire. We will now work together to see its successful implementation."

Sladen Estates Limited has donated use of P141 – its new warehouse development - for the launch and JCB and Zytek have provided the staff and resources to enable their products to be showcased at the event. South Derbyshire businesses that have accepted an invitation to the launch include Bison Concrete Products Ltd., Extec Screens & Crushers, Futaba Industrial UK, GRM, Integra Strategic Consultants, Nestle, Richardson’s Furnishers and The National Forest Company.

The South Derbyshire Economic Development Strategy 2008 – 2012 can be viewed on the Council’s website at www.south-derbys.gov.uk/business/economicdevelopment  and hard copies can be requested by calling South Derbyshire District Council Customer Services on 01283 595795.