The South Hams has a diverse base of very small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs). There are over 5,000 businesses in total. The large businesses tend to be located in the West of the district, close to Plymouth and the A38 Devon Expressway. Employment and turnover projections show that business confidence is high. The main reason for businesses considering a move is for expansion and the vast majority of these would prefer to remain in the South Hams. [Inner ring: Jobs Outer ring: Businesses]
The South Hams economy grew strongly between 1992 and 2002, particularly in the latter half of the period. The principal expanding sectors were the transport and communication, distribution, construction and other community services. Manufacturing experienced an above average rate of growth in the first part of the period. The poorly performing and declining sectors were agriculture, mining and quarrying, as well as energy supply and water. Tourism as an important industry in the district accounted for one in seven of all jobs. [Source: South Hams Economy 1992 – 2002 Report
and South Hams Business Survey 2004 ].
The Economy and Europe Office monitors the performance of the local economy through local business surveys and works in partnership with business sectors, agencies and local authorities to improve the prosperity of those living and working in the district.
The South Hams Business Survey 2004 shows: - Business optimism increased from 2001
- Three-quarters of businesses were operating above the VAT threshold
- Increased uptake of ICT and broadband technology
- An increase in employed staff
- A decrease in recruitment difficulties of suitably qualified staff
- Increased environmental awareness and activity
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Contact the Economy and Europe team via:
South Hams District Council
Follaton House
Plymouth Road
Totnes
Devon
TQ9 5NE
Telephone: 01803 861234
Fax: 01803 861404
Email: Economy.Europe@southhams.gov.uk
