A group of 25 local business leaders in Doncaster have joined together to provide insight, guidance and challenge the city’s economic priorities.

The Mayor’s new Business Advisory Group is chaired by Dan Fell MBE, CEO of Doncaster Chamber, alongside Mayor Ros Jones.

Dan Fell said: “This is a group to do, not just talk. Part of our role is to prick bubbles, challenge groupthink, and bring different perspectives and networks to the table to help Doncaster thrive.

“This group will succeed or fail based on Ros and Council colleagues coming to us with the right topic at the right time, and we will offer our views and guidance to ensure decisions are informed by local business expertise.”

The Mayor received over 70 applicants to join the group. Following the first meeting, it was an opportunity for members to put names to faces and begin shaping Doncaster’s economic future.

Fell added: “Our goal is simple: to provide insight, challenge, and support that helps make Doncaster an even better place to live, work, and do business.”

Discussions in the meeting included focusing on a range of issues, including city centre safety, access to finance for businesses, skills and workforce development, private investment, and the reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport.

Mayor Ros Jones said: “The work of this Business Advisory Group will be key in helping to inform local policy and decision making, and I look forward to working with the Group as we seek to drive continued economic growth and prosperity across Doncaster.”

The group will continue to meet regularly, forming smaller working groups in an attempt to tackle specific challenges and opportunities.