Neil Grose to help Meander Valley COVID-19 recovery

Mr Grose announced he would be stepping down from his role as executive of the Launceston Chamber of Commerce and Industry earlier this week.

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From June 22, he will act as the manager of business and economic recovery at the Meander Valley Council.

Mr Grose said there are some things he still wants to complete before he finishes up with the LCCI but he is excited to start the new position.

"I think the way Meander Valley council is positioning, forward planning for recovery from COVID is really exciting and really compelling," Mr Grose said.

"It really is that forward thinking which is going to be critical."

He said the role will include working with businesses but also exploring how to capitalise on the natural strengths of the Meander Valley.

"It is also about looking at how we can grow things like the industrial estate at Westbury, how we can leverage the magnificent natural advantages of Deloraine ... also looking for residential opportunities like at Hadspen where it is a natural growth corridor for the greater Launceston area," Mr Grose said.

Mayor Wayne Johnston said the council recognised the importance of planning ahead.

"Council is thinking strategically about how we ensure the long term prosperity of the Meander Valley area and how we can front foot our recovery from COVID-19," he said.

"Highlighting our natural strengths and sending a strong signal that Meander Valley is open for business and ready for investment is key to our recovery."

He said the new role would expand the support they already give to small businesses and would help them bring more jobs to the region.

"On behalf of Council I welcome Neil to the team and we look forward to working together with him," Cr Johnston said.

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