What is the strategy about?
The Bury All-Age Work and Skills Strategy is a long-term plan to help people of all ages in Bury access better education, training, and job opportunities. It’s designed to support everyone from school children to adults looking to retrain or advance their careers—so they can thrive in a rapidly changing job market.
This strategy is a key part of Bury’s wider LET’S do it! Strategy, which aims to create a borough that grows faster than the national average and has lower levels of deprivation. It brings together the principles of Local, Enterprise, Together, and Strengths to build a stronger, fairer, and more inclusive community.
Why is this strategy important?
Although Bury has a strong economic base with over 8,000 businesses and a £3.2 billion economy, growth has been slow. Many residents travel outside the borough for work due to limited local opportunities. This strategy is a response to those challenges and a roadmap to unlock Bury’s full potential.
Big opportunities ahead
Bury is on the brink of major transformation:
- Northern Gateway (part of Atom Valley) is a huge development project that will bring:
- 20,000 new jobs
- 7,000 new homes
- 1.6 million square metres of employment space
This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape the local economy and ensure residents benefit from new, high-quality jobs.
A Focus on skills for the future
The strategy recognises that the world of work is evolving due to technology and shifting industries. It promotes:
- Lifelong learning – from early education to adult retraining
- Career adaptability – helping people switch careers or upskill
- Inclusive growth – ensuring everyone, regardless of background, can benefit
It also supports the LET’S do it! Strategy goals of improving educational attainment, increasing adult skill levels, and creating better futures for children and families.
Working together
The strategy is a collaborative effort involving:
- Local schools and colleges
- Employers and businesses
- Community organisations
- Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA)
Together, they aim to build a local work and skills ecosystem that supports both individuals and the economy.
Vision for the future
Bury wants to be a place where:
- Everyone has access to good jobs
- Education is closely linked to career opportunities
- Businesses can find the skilled workers they need
- Communities grow in a fair and inclusive way
By aligning with the LET’S do it! Strategy, this plan helps ensure that Bury becomes a place where people want to live, work, and invest.