Herefordshire businesses back on their feet

2:30pm Wednesday 23rd July 2008

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SOME of the Herefordshire businesses worst-hit by the floods were helped back on their feet by a £3.5 million recovery package.

The tourism sector suffered particularly badly in the weeks following the floods as consumers stayed away – unaware the county was open for business.

“Images broadcast at the time left the impression the region was closed for business, while in the majority of cases flash flooding receded swiftly,” said Mark Pearce, corporate director for economic regeneration at Advantage West Midlands (AWM).

“Our response was fast and it was direct. It had to be.”

The regional development agency, working with key partners such as Business Link West Midlands, established an emergency flood recovery package.

Initial support was in place within 11 working days.

“The flooding particularly affected rural tourism and agricultural sectors and caused significant disruption in a large number of market towns,” said Mr Pearce.

“The agency is proud of the relationships it has built with local partners.”