Chairman will focus efforts on new start-ups

Bill Aron.

Small businesses are to be the focus of efforts by Lincolnshire County Council’s new chairman.

Coun Bill Aron took over the role on Friday from Coun Ray Wootton and has expressed an eagerness to use his time as chairman to help new businesses get off the ground.

Promoting tourism will also be high on his agenda.

He said: “I’m delighted to have been appointed Chairman of Lincolnshire County Council and intend to carry on the good work that Coun Wootten has achieved over the last 12 months.

“I’m looking forward to promoting tourism throughout Lincolnshire and am keen to see the development of more technology hubs around the county, similar to the one recently opened in Horncastle.

“These give small businesses the chance to try out new technology and equipment without having to commit to spending large sums of money first.

“I’m also looking forward to working closely with Coun William Webb as the new vice chairman, in the coming year.”

Coun Webb is the councillor representing Holbeach Rural on the county council.

Coun Aron represents Horncastle and the Tetford division.

Technology hubs have sprung up in several towns across Lincolnshire, including Lincoln, Horncastle and Boston, in conjunction with the county council-run broadband project onlincolnshire.

The hubs offer use of new technology such as 3D scanners and high-precision laser cutters and engravers, so that businesses can get hands-on experience of using the machinery before deciding on whether or not to invest for their own company.

Workshops and advice are also available at the hubs, which can help businesses in sectors including architecture, manufacturing and food production.

There is also one-to-one support available, which can help businesses with information about using new technology to improve their business or implementing new technology.