Canterbury City Council Joins Partnership for Local Economic Growth

A Kent-based council has become a member of an economic partnership, aiming to ensure that “money earned in the district stays in local pockets”. Canterbury City Council’s inclusion in the Co-operative Councils’ Innovation Network (CCIN) has been confirmed. The CCIN is a collaborative network comprising over 45 local authorities dedicated to fostering sustainable economic development. The CCIN advocates for equitable wages and the recirculation of wealth, achieved by encouraging local enterprises to engage in mutual purchasing and support. Chris Cornell, who serves as the council’s cabinet member for economic development and inclusion, characterized the decision to join the network, which counts Lewes District Council, the City of Westminster, and Manchester City Council among its members, as a “no-brainer”. Jim Robbins, who holds the positions of leader for Swindon Borough Council and chair of the CCIN, clarified that participation in the group offers councils avenues for inter-council learning. He added, “Our members are committed to finding better ways of working for and with local people to benefit their local community.”