Swindon's Investment Boom: 30 Firms Eye Move, Thousands of Jobs on Horizon
Swindon Borough Council has revealed that thirty companies are currently in active discussions about establishing operations in the borough, a move that could bring thousands of new jobs to the area. Council leader Jim Robbins delivered this optimistic update during a recent policy and performance committee meeting, highlighting the success of the council's inward investment team.
Strong Pipeline and Job Creation
Councillor Robbins emphasized that the inward investment pipeline is one of the strongest seen in years, with 30 active projects underway. He noted that the team has already secured 1,400 new jobs for Swindon, and the potential for thousands more high-quality positions is on the table. "We are seeing a level of interest that many other places would really envy," Robbins stated, underscoring the borough's growing appeal to businesses.
Drone Manufacturing Sector Thrives
The report highlighted significant growth in the defence drone manufacturing sector, with companies like Stark and Tekever already setting up in Swindon. In total, five drone-makers have either established a presence or announced plans to do so, and another four are expected to follow. This cluster development is positioning Swindon as a key hub for advanced manufacturing and technology industries.
Rapid Development at Former Honda Site
Councillor Robbins also pointed to the swift progress at the old Honda site, now being developed by Panattoni. The level of interest from companies looking to move there is substantial, though Robbins remained tight-lipped on specific details, joking, "I'm not good at keeping secrets, but I can't tell you here." This redevelopment is a cornerstone of the council's strategy to attract new investment and revitalize local infrastructure.
Higher Education Prospects Expand
In response to questions from Councillor Abdul Amin about increasing higher education provision, Robbins outlined ongoing discussions with several institutions, including Bristol, Bath, UWE, Bath Spa, The Open University, and Oxford. While a standalone University of Swindon is unlikely due to funding constraints, Robbins expressed confidence in attracting satellite campuses or course offerings from existing universities.
He specifically mentioned The Open University's interest in establishing a hub in Swindon, citing the borough's classification as a cold spot for higher education. "The Open University is keen to come and talk to us, and I think we expect to have an event planned for just after the election," Robbins added, indicating potential for enhanced educational opportunities and skills development in the region.
Skills and Devolution Opportunities
The council has submitted a bid to the government focused on skills training for the defence industries, leveraging devolution to secure investments in specialized training programs. This aligns with the broader goal of supporting the incoming businesses and ensuring the local workforce is equipped for high-quality jobs.
Overall, Swindon's economic landscape is poised for significant transformation, driven by robust inward investment, sectoral growth in technology, and expanded educational prospects, all contributing to a brighter future for the borough and its residents.
