As more traders and services welcome back customers today (Monday 17 May), Rutland County Council is reminding local business owners to share their experiences of being part of the Rutland economy.

The Future Rutland Conversation was launched in April and is a chance for families, businesses and visitors to comment on a range of important issues. By gathering this feedback from people of all ages and backgrounds, the Council hopes to produce a new shared vision for the county.

Two special live, virtual Conversations designed exclusively for anyone who owns or runs a business that's located in the county are being hosted by the Council this week:

On Tuesday 18 May, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm

On Thursday 20 May, from 10.00am to midday

These online Zoom events are free to attend and will be led by Michael Maynard, an independent facilitator. You can register online to join by visiting: future.rutland.gov.uk.

A dedicated Business Survey is also part of the 10 themed surveys within the Future Rutland Conversation. The short questionnaire covers key areas including reasons for choosing Rutland as the place to start or grow a business, opportunities for growth, views on barriers or challenges to be overcome, and priorities in achieving business plans.

The Business Survey can be found at: future.rutland.gov.uk/future-rutland-conversation/survey_tools/survey-for-businesses

Councillor Oliver Hemsley, Leader of Rutland County Council, said: "Life's been very hard and very different for all of us due to COVID-19. There are positive signs we might be nearing the end of the pandemic, especially now we've reached Step 3 of the Government's easing of lockdown restrictions. I know these will be warmly welcomed by pubs, cafes, restaurants and entertainment venues that can now offer indoor hospitality, as well as businesses that rely on Rutland's tourist trade.

"Because of COVID, we need a revised plan for the future – for all those who live and work here. Holding a conversation with our business owners will help us to understand their priorities and ambitions and how, together, we can shape and build a shared vision for Rutland's future prosperity. So we want to hear from all types of businesses, big and small, on what the community can do to support you no matter what sector you are in."

Find out more about the Future Rutland Conversation at future.rutland.gov.uk If you want to take part in the Future Rutland Conversation but don't have access to the internet, please call Rutland County Council on 01572 722 577.

Find out about the support and services offered to businesses by Rutland County Council at www.rutland.gov.uk/my-business.