Plymouth City Council is renewing its successful working arrangement with the Millfields Community Economic Development Trust, reinforcing its commitment to business support and job creation within Stonehouse.
Established in 1999 through a pioneering community asset transfer, the Millfields Trust has been a cornerstone of local economic development. The trust has consistently demonstrated its ability to foster growth, support local businesses, and create meaningful employment opportunities within the community.
The new 10-year funding agreement supports renewal of the asset leases and comes at a time when Plymouth, like other cities, is responding to the climate emergency as well as the economic and social challenges. The Council and the trust are dedicated to ensuring that the economic growth of Stonehouse is sustainable and benefits all members of the community.
Over the past two decades, the trust has made significant strides in transforming the local economy. With a track record of nurturing small and medium-sized enterprises, the trust has been instrumental in not only creating jobs but in cultivating a vibrant community spirit that champions local entrepreneurship. Millfields Trust has:
• supported over 100 businesses in the city, leading to the creation of hundreds of jobs.
• facilitated over £1 million in investments in local businesses, contributing to the growth of the economy.
• through its various programmes and initiatives, has helped increase footfall and business activity in the area, boosting the overall economic vibrancy of Plymouth.
The renewed agreement will build on this work, with both the Council and the Trust committed to the economic goals of creating a diverse and resilient economy, attracting investment, supporting innovation and entrepreneurship, improving infrastructure and promoting skills development to drive growth and development in the city.
In line with the Council's vision for equality and social inclusion, this partnership will continue to focus on creating employment opportunities that are accessible to all.
Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council said “The trust has a great track record of creating opportunities and helping local people reach their full potential. This is another example of how this administration is focussed on building growth in the city, helping small businesses reach their full potential and sustaining social enterprises. We look forward to another decade of help and support for the Stonehouse community.”
Lewis Allison, Operations Director for Millfields Trust added: “We are excited about our future and continued growth. Collaborating with the council amplifies our impact, combining knowledge and resources to better serve our community. Millfields Trust can tailor programmes and initiatives to support underrepresented groups, including young people, those with disabilities, and individuals from minority backgrounds.”