That was the message at the launch of Cookstown District Council’s new Local Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan last Thursday (May 1) where the Minister of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Nigel Dodds, OBE, MP, MLA was special guest.

The event, which was attended by over 100 representatives from businesses as well as the statutory and community sectors, provided the opportunity for Cookstown District Council to highlight the significant economic growth experienced over the last eight years.

They reflected upon the economic vision that was created in 2001 and how, not only had it been successfully implemented, but put in place with some incredible results.

The audience heard how the council had identified four key areas which it will target in partnership with businesses, to ensure the district continues its rapid growth and builds upon its economic reputation as one of the fastest growing economic locations in Northern Ireland.

Following speeches by the Chairman of Cookstown District Council, Councillor Ian McCrea, MLA; the council’s Director of Development, Adrian McCreesh; Tony Convery, Executive Chairman of CDE Ireland Limited, and Plant Director of Copeland Limited, John McAfee, the Minister officially launched the new Local Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan.

“Investments in key productivity drivers of innovation, skills, enterprise and infrastructure are a critical component of the Programme for Government, and these are clearly reflected in the Cookstown District Local Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan,” he said.

The Economy Minister said since its inception, Invest NI has offered assistance of £11.3 million to companies in the Cookstown area, towards total planned investment of £61 million.

“A lot of hard work has gone into the development of this comprehensive strategy and I congratulate all those who have been involved.

“I look forward to working with the council and other stakeholders to achieve our joint aim.”