DELEGATES attending the Forest Economic Partnership meeting have been gazing into their crystal ball to anticipate the needs of the economy in district in 2050.

Some 100 delegates focussed on important topics; digital connectivity, education and skills, the Severn Bridge and cross border working, transport and infrastructure.

Andrew Callard, chairman of the Forest Economic Partnership said: "We have made a great start in identifying and defining issues facing people who live, work and come to visit the Forest.

"We are not looking back into the past as we are looking very much into the future.

"We have been carrying out some off the wall thinking in this respect, some of which have been dismissed and other ideas are to be examined by some of the steering groups to develop some major opportunities.

"The large turnout is testament to the partnership beginning to be recognised as a vessel to advance the Forest of Dean as a forward thinking area when it comes to future business."

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Councillor Tim Gwilliam, leader of the district council said: “I was really pleased with the energy in the room. The delegates brought with them a vast range of knowledge and skills which will help to put the Forest of Dean on the UK business map.”