Representatives from the ports and hospitality sectors have held a virtual summit to discuss the economic growth of North Lincolnshire.
North Lincolnshire Council established the virtual network, with key figures from the business community coming together to discuss their experiences, any support they may need, and explore opportunities to grow the economy.
Grant Honzik, General Manager at PD Ports Ltd, said:
“PD Ports has continued to support vital UK supply chains during the pandemic, handling essential cargo including food, fuel and pharmaceuticals from 13 locations nationwide. At our inland port at Groveport we specialise in steel distribution and bulk storage.
“Whilst the outbreak has impacted trade, social distancing measures have posed challenges to our operations, I have been encouraged to see the volumes of commodities passing through the ports start to increase. In general, our ports across the Humber region are going from strength to strength, and are benefitting from substantial investment in infrastructure. I’m optimistic for the future growth of all port related sectors in North Lincolnshire.”
Samantha Cook, Sales Manager at Hampton by Hilton Humberside Airport, said:
“Positioned next to Humberside Airport, Hampton by Hilton offers a choice of 100 rooms, catering to holidaymakers and corporate travellers alike. The hotel temporarily closed to all but a few key workers in March, and losing revenue from conference, catering facilities, and room bookings has proved challenging for the business.
“However, in a promising development, we have begun to receive accommodation enquiries from both previous customers and new clients, as more businesses seek to resume trading.”
Jo Starkie, Owner of The Old Parsonage Bed and Breakfast, said:
“Situated in the pretty village of Scawby, The Old Parsonage Bed and Breakfast is a great base to explore all the fantastic things that North Lincolnshire has to offer. We have used the temporary closure to carry out improvements to our facilities, as well as considering the social distancing measures we may need to implement to create a safe environment.
We are grateful to North Lincolnshire Council for the efficient delivery of the Government’s business grant, and whilst this has been a great support, we are looking forward to welcoming guests back into our home.”
Cllr Rob Waltham, Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said:
“I’m grateful to our local business leaders for sharing their experiences at this unprecedented time, they provide an important steer to our development plans as North Lincolnshire bids to bounce back from the pandemic.
“There will, of course, be challenges to overcome, but with multi-million pound investment programmes and continued improvements to infrastructure, the area is in a great position.
“It is heartening to hear the optimism of the business community, who are starting to see green shoots of recovery in different ways. Together, all sectors make an invaluable contribution to the growth of our area, helping to ensure North Lincolnshire is a great place in which to live, work, visit and invest.”
