Improving the economic future of Filey was the topic of a meeting last weekend organised by MP Kevin Hollinrake, between the Centre for Entrepreneurs, a local businessman, and an inspiring entrepreneur. The conversation focused on a new report by the Centre for Entrepreneurs entitled ‘Ebb and Flow’ and how to promote the seaside resort and attract more investment to the town.
hey discussed how Filey has retained its maritime history and the pride of people in its fishing and naval heritage. Mr Hollinrake appreciates how recognising the legacy of the town’s past could secure its future and entice more people to invest locally.
During the meeting the MP spoke with Centre for Entrepreneurs’ representative Matt Smith, Charles Houlden-Banks and the owners of the White Lodge Hotel about how identifying and promoting such key features and characteristics of Filey could attract more visitors.
Local man James Hodgson, born and raised in Filey, became a top London lawyer and has now returned to help turn the tide in the town. Last year James and his wife Kim purchased the White Lodge, a hotel with a focal point in the town because of its location and history. Mr Hollinrake heard how the Hodgsons have great plans to restore the hotel to its former glory and act as a magnet for other new business investment in the town. He commented;
“In celebrating Filey’s rich past we can build a strong future. The investment and commitment from the new owners of the White Lodge is key to the economic development of the town. The common thread of the case studies in Ebb and Flow is one of business people taking the initiative rather than waiting for a lead from the local authority."
The Centre for Entrepreneurs, an independent think tank, their latest research Ebb & Flow: How Entrepreneurs Can Turn The Tide For Britain’s Seaside Towns calls on seaside towns to identify a unique identity that attracts entrepreneurs and puts the town on the map.
Filey resident Charles Houlden-Banks had written to Mr Hollinrake who very was interested to hear his ideas at the meeting. The MP was keen to hear about all the issues facing the town and hopes to continue to have meetings and correspondence with more residents.
Mr Hollinrake spoke again about the need for reliable transport links, improving the A64 and providing earlier, later and more frequent trains to and from Filey. Initiatives to support existing and new businesses were also highlighted at the meeting, eg. The Coastal Communities Fund, as was the potential benefits for the region from Devolution