The business support group, which represents over 1300 business in Otago and Southland, is calling for the council to urgently commit to economic development ahead of hearings on its 2026-27 annual plan this week.
"Dunedin risks being left behind — and not through neglect, but through insufficient urgency about what the city needs to do to grow its economic base, attract and retain talent, and differentiate itself in an increasingly competitive national and international environment," it said in it submission to the hearing.
"A city that manages costs well but fails to grow its economic base will fall behind, regardless of how tightly it runs its balance sheet."
It encouraged the council to invest in business development strategy "Invest Dunedin"which Business South said set out a framework for the city to leverage its advantages including the University of Otago, a liveable and affordable urban environment and a distinctive identity which attracted specific demographics.
"The domestic economic context, cost-of-living pressures, global trade uncertainty and the impact of Middle East conflict on fuel and supply chains make the case for a strong local economic development function stronger, not weaker," the submission said.
It also urged the council to commit to meeting targets for jobs created or retained through Enterprise Dunedin activity, new business investment facilitated, and skills attraction initiatives funded.
The council should publish a medium-term financial sustainability plan for Forsyth Barr Stadium, prioritise South Dunedin infrastructure ahead of amenity projects and establish a formal business advisory reference group ahead of the ten year plan, Business South said.
It was also keen on the council to be transparent about increases in fees and charges and reduce consent and regulatory compliance burdens on business.
"Business South is committed to working constructively with council toward a Dunedin that is genuinely competitive, economically vibrant, and a place that businesses choose to invest in and grow," the submission said.
