02 Jan Brentwood & Uttlesford named as two of the best areas in the country for creating an environment for sustainable growth
Two authorities in Essex have been named among the healthiest, happiest, most inclusive and dynamic areas in the country, according to a new report from leading business and financial adviser, Grant Thornton UK LLP.
Brentwood and Uttlesford both scored highly in multiple areas of the Sustainable Growth Index, which tracks the success of the 324 local authority areas in England. As well as looking at traditional economic
measures, the report also takes into account social indicators such as dynamism, inclusion, health, resilience and community trust.
Both locations are in the top 20% of all local authorities on the overall Sustainable Growth Index; Brentwood has climbed 43 places to 41, while Uttlesford is ranked 55, demonstrating a good balance between
social and economic performance. Colchester and Chelmsford were also
ranked as being above average, at 78 and 81 respectively. The lowest scoring areas in the county were Thurrock (272), Castle Point (276) and Tendring (309).
Uttlesford was also named as the fourth best area in England for
‘health, wellbeing & happiness’, moving up six places on last year’s Index. Brentwood was ranked at 28, climbing a staggering 144 places on the previous Index. Other notable performances in this basket include
Rochford in 20th position – the town entered the top 20 for the first
time this year, having moved up from 257 in the 2018 Index.
