North Norfolk aims to attract more marine companies
07 Apr 2010
With the help of the North Norfolk Business Forum the seven marine companies operating in Catfield, Norfolk, have set about attracting other boatbuilding and marine engineering businesses and increasing employment in the area.
EAST COAST: North Norfolk Business Forum [NNBF] has begun to work with a cluster of award winning, exporting marine companies in Catfield, where seven companies, involved directly or indirectly with the marine industry, are situated.
Haines Marine hosted a meeting on March 22, 2010, when Bob and Mary Haines were joined by representatives from Brimbelow Engineering, Trend Marine and McNamara Sails. They met with Norman Lamb, MP for North Norfolk, Robin Smith, economic and tourism development manager at North Norfolk District Council, and Ian Doughty, chairman of the NNBF.
‘The aim of NNBF’s Round Tables is to support members, offer a stimulating environment in which ideas flourish, work towards a stronger sector and ultimately, to increase employment,’ said Ian Doughty. ‘This initial meeting was to discuss possible future support for the marine manufacturing industry from the public sector.’
In 2008, over 370 people were employed in marine manufacturing in Catfield, but in the first quarter of 2010, there were just 250. ‘It’s hoped that by instituting a high profile marketing campaign, other boatbuilding and marine engineering businesses will be attracted to this part of Norfolk,’ said Mr Doughty.
The NNBF has already established a Tourism Round Table, and Agriculture Round Table and both Mr Lamb and Mr Smith expressed support and enthusiasm for this latest marine initiative.
Haines Marine hosted a meeting on March 22, 2010, when Bob and Mary Haines were joined by representatives from Brimbelow Engineering, Trend Marine and McNamara Sails. They met with Norman Lamb, MP for North Norfolk, Robin Smith, economic and tourism development manager at North Norfolk District Council, and Ian Doughty, chairman of the NNBF.
‘The aim of NNBF’s Round Tables is to support members, offer a stimulating environment in which ideas flourish, work towards a stronger sector and ultimately, to increase employment,’ said Ian Doughty. ‘This initial meeting was to discuss possible future support for the marine manufacturing industry from the public sector.’
In 2008, over 370 people were employed in marine manufacturing in Catfield, but in the first quarter of 2010, there were just 250. ‘It’s hoped that by instituting a high profile marketing campaign, other boatbuilding and marine engineering businesses will be attracted to this part of Norfolk,’ said Mr Doughty.
The NNBF has already established a Tourism Round Table, and Agriculture Round Table and both Mr Lamb and Mr Smith expressed support and enthusiasm for this latest marine initiative.
