Economic Development Strategy

We are committed to supporting local business. We recognise that our businesses are the core contributors to the prosperity of the borough. We have adopted this Economic Development Action Plan for our borough.

In preparing this document we have recognised the challenge of enabling economic growth whilst also protecting the environment and quality of life in the borough.

Gatwick Diamond Initiative

The Gatwick Diamond Initiative is a business led private/public sector partnership which covers parts of Surrey (including Epsom & Ewell) and parts of Sussex.

Local councils, government agencies and leading business representatives are addressing the needs of the area as a strategic entity to ensure it is a world class place to live, work and do business.

The overall direction of the Gatwick Diamond Initiative is led by the Gatwick Diamond Overview Forum. Membership is made up of senior business representatives, local council leaders and key public sector organisations. It provides strategic direction and oversight of the Gatwick Diamond's financial and performance management.

The Gatwick Diamond Future Plan has three strategic initiatives, each managed by a task group, with their own action plans:

  • Inspire - inspiring knowledge to enhance skills, productivity and innovation
  • Connect - creating a transport network for global competitiveness
  • Grow - creating a 'smart growth' planning strategy for sustainable development

The Gatwick Diamond is one of five area partnerships which comprise the Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership.

Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership

Coast to Capital is the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) for Brighton & Hove, Croydon, East Surrey (including Epsom & Ewell), Lewes and West Sussex.

Formed in 2011 as one of the UK’s new Local Enterprise Partnerships, its small yet dynamic team is focused on delivering growth for one of Britain’s most economically important areas.  The organisation takes a strategic lead in ensuring that the infrastructure and conditions for economic growth are in place across the area.  This includes the facilitation of the Government’s Growing Places Fund and the European Structural and Investment Fund.

Horse racing in Epsom

Horse racing has taken place in Epsom for over 350 years (the first recorded race days were in the 1640's). As well as being a significant local employer, the horse racing industry adds around £13million annually to the local economy.

We support local horse racing industry initiatives to strengthen and grow within the borough. Their latest literature can be downloaded here: Epsom Vision leaflet.