Swindon & Wiltshire News
New business-led board to drive Swindon & Wiltshire economy meets for first time
A business-led board established to drive the economy in Swindon & Wiltshire has held its inaugural meeting.
Swindon and Wiltshire Business and Growth Unit was formed after Conservative chancellor Jeremy Hunt scrapped Local Enterprise Partnerships – including Swindon & Wiltshire LEP – in his 2023 Spring Budget, handing responsibility for economic growth back to local councils.
The Economic Advisory Board is made up of business leaders, and gives business a say on the councils’ strategies to improve infrastructure, increase digital capability, and enhance the sills of the county’s workforce.
The chair will rotate between Wiltshire Council and Swindon Borough Council.
Several critical topics were discussed during the meeting, setting the tone for the Board’s future activities. Among the key themes were:
Skills Development and Workforce Preparedness A central focus of the discussions was addressing the region’s skills gap.
The Board recognised that ensuring local businesses have access to a well-trained and adaptable workforce is crucial for future economic success.
As part of this, the EAB will work closely with education providers to develop programmes that match the skills needs of businesses, particularly in high-growth sectors such as digital technology, engineering, and advanced manufacturing.
Business Support Initiatives Another major topic was the development of comprehensive business support services. The EAB is committed to enhancing the support available to both start-ups and established enterprises in the region, helping them to thrive in an increasingly competitive and dynamic economic environment.
From financial support and investment advice to digital transformation services, the Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Hub and the Business and Growth Unit aims to offer a holistic package that will drive growth, innovation, and productivity.
Sustainability and Green Growth Sustainability was also high on the agenda, with the Board keen to explore opportunities for green growth.
In line with national priorities and Wiltshire Council’s own environmental targets, the EAB will champion projects that promote low-carbon technologies, sustainable business practices, and energy-efficient infrastructure.
The Board discussed potential funding avenues and partnerships to advance these goals, particularly in the areas of renewable energy and green transport.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Improving transport and digital infrastructure remains a priority for the region’s economic strategy.
The Board discussed the importance of ensuring that Swindon and Wiltshire’s infrastructure can support both local businesses and inward investment.
The development of new digital infrastructure, including the rollout of ultra-fast broadband across rural areas, is seen as a critical enabler of business growth, allowing businesses of all sizes to innovate and compete on a national and global scale.
Jim Robbins, co-chair of the Economic Advisory Board and leader of Swindon Borough Council said: “We are excited to begin this new chapter for economic development in Swindon and Wiltshire.
“The Board is committed to fostering an environment where businesses can thrive, and we look forward to working closely with Wiltshire Council and our local partners to achieve this.”
Richard Clewer, leader of Wiltshire Council, said: “The inaugural meeting of the Economic Advisory Board marks a pivotal moment for our region’s future.
“By bringing together key leaders and sectors, we are laying the groundwork for strong, sustainable growth that will benefit businesses and communities across Swindon and Wiltshire.
“I look forward to working closely with Swindon Borough Council and the Board to drive forward our shared vision for economic success.”
The EAB comprises key leaders from the business, education, and public sectors, including:
- Dr Ghazwa Alwani-Starr, chief operating officer, University of Bath
- Pepper Barney, co-founder, BiBO
- Dan Beckles, co-founder, Furniture Box
- Richard Clewer, leader of Wiltshire Council and cabinet member for economic development
- Iain Hatt, principal, Wiltshire College and University Centre
- Andy Hogben, managing director, Chemring Countermeasures
- Dr Mark Matthews, strategy and advisory director, Ipsos
- Kate Mills, business & education development manager, Key Performance Training
- Abdul-Basit Mohammed, knowledge transfer manager, Innovate UK
- Alison North, founder, AN Information Ltd
- Jim Robbins, leader of Swindon Borough Council
- James Watson, Panattoni UK Developments Ltd
- Debbie Williams, managing director
- The Federation of Small Businesses (Somerset and Wiltshire) also has a seat at the table.
Pictured: County Hall, headquarters of Wiltshire Council
