NEW jobs have been created at Worcestershire businesses as a result of a programme.

The LEADER programme from Defra, and delivered by Worcestershire County Council and the Worcestershire Local Action Group, was set up two years ago and a total of 24 businesses have been chosen to receive funding, with in total £605,879 being invested.

The investment has meant the creation of extra jobs with up to 80 new positions expected to be created by the end of 2019 across all the companies.

The focus of the LEADER programme is on growing the economies of rural communities. The project has received funding from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development under the Rural Development Programme for England.

The types of businesses that have benefitted so far include farms, village community groups, forestry management businesses and self-employed contractors. Money has been used to fund new buildings, purchase equipment and to create a soft play area.

One of the businesses to receive LEADER funding is Aztec Adventure, an aqua park planned for Upton Warren near Bromsgrove – the first in Worcestershire - with an open day set for July. They were given £14,397.

Craig Spence, director of Aztec Adventure, a Worcestershire firm that has benefited to the tune of £14,397, said: “LEADER has been extremely supportive with our business venture.

“They’ve given us the opportunity to launch Worcestershire’s first ever waterpark.”

Councillor Ken Pollock, cabinet member with responsibility for economy and infrastructure, said: “Many businesses have benefited from the LEADER programme to date.

“The investment has allowed businesses to expand and take on new workers which is great news for the local economy.”

For more information on LEADER call 01905 843992/01905 846741 or visit worcestershire.gov.uk/leader.