Epping Forest District Council
Epping Forest District Council
Epping Forest District Council (EFDC) is proud to be part of the North Essex Economic Board. This exciting new partnership will help EFDC support local businesses through new and innovative ways. Working with other local authorities will provide more opportunities to help businesses grow and thrive.
With its ancient forest, market towns and beautiful villages, Epping Forest district is a wonderful place to raise your family and grow your business.
It is steeped in history and beauty. The royal history of Waltham Abbey stretches back over a thousand years. Chipping Ongar was the site of a medieval castle. Roman remains have been found in Chigwell. Loughton and Buckhurst Hill grew with the introduction of the railways. Winston Churchill served as the MP. Charles Dickens was inspired by the district’s hospitality, and North Weald Airfield was a front-line airfield in WW1 and WW2.
For those who want a bit of hustle and bustle, there are six vibrant traditional towns to visit, each providing something unique, with a mixture of independent boutiques and high street shops.
The district is perfectly positioned for your business to flourish with easy access by road, rail, and air. From the boutiques and cafes of Loughton and Buckhurst Hill to Epping Forest Shopping Park, and the markets of Epping and North Weald, it is a thriving commercial and retail destination.
EFDC, working through its development company, Qualis, is also bringing forward exciting plans for major investment in town centres, and direct investment in digital infrastructure networks.
Nurturing Growth 2020 – 2025
The economy within the district is vibrant and diverse, based in a region that is successful and growing and located between the 2 international economic powerhouses of London and Cambridge.
Taking these and the other key issues that have been identified, EFDC’s vision is for a future economy that reflects the aims and aspirations for all those who live and work in the district.
Key priorities
- Promote the vibrant, diverse and resilient high streets and town centres
- Support rural areas to grow and thrive
- Make the district an attractive place for entrepreneurs and businesses
- Deliver 21st-century infrastructure for business growth
- Exploit opportunities, developments and investment from outside the district
- Build and grow partnerships with key stakeholders
- Provide residents with opportunities in education, skills and training opportunities