Swindon Borough Council is set to shine a spotlight on the town’s economic strength and future growth potential at a high-profile event at the House of Lords next Monday (17 March).
The event will bring together major investors, business leaders, and government officials to explore opportunities linked to the Council’s ambitious ‘Heart of Swindon’ vision for the town centre.
Panattoni, FI Real Estate Management, and Business West will be among the key organisations attending, highlighting Swindon’s strong economic performance and the significant investment opportunities available in the coming years.
Earlier in the day, Council Leader Councillor Jim Robbins will present the updated Vision document at Number 10 Downing Street, outlining the Council’s growth strategy directly to government leaders. The Vision was originally developed last year with the help of London-based architecture and planning firm Allies and Morrison and has been updated following consultation with local residents, businesses, and key stakeholders.
The Council aims to attract investors to help deliver up to 8,000 new homes and supporting infrastructure in Swindon, where the population is growing faster than the national average. Over £100m of public sector funding has already been committed to improving infrastructure and unlocking development opportunities.
Speaking ahead of the event, Councillor Robbins said: “Swindon consistently punches above its weight when it comes to productivity, employment opportunities, affordable housing, and access to green spaces. We have a strong economy and some fantastic investment opportunities. This event is about bringing senior figures from the worlds of finance, business, and government together to help stimulate further investment in the town centre over the next decade.”
Colin Skellett, Chair of Business West, added: ” “The Heart of Swindon offers a compelling vision of the public and private sector working together to drive sustainable prosperity.
“I look forward to this launch in Westminster Palace, and making the case for Swindon with world-leading institutional investors who have the capital and resources to make this vision a reality.”
Swindon’s impressive economic track record speaks for itself. For the second year running, the town ranked among the five best-performing areas in the Good Growth for Cities Index, reflecting its strength in productivity and employment. Its strategic position within the Thames Valley corridor, with excellent transport links by road and rail, makes it an attractive location for business and investment.
Panattoni’s £918m investment in Swindon over the next decade is a prime example of this potential. The creation of 7.2 million sq ft of logistics, industrial, and data centres on the site of the former Honda factory is expected to generate up to 11,000 jobs, with another 4,000 created in the supply chain.
Next week’s House of Lords event is set to be a key milestone in reinforcing Swindon’s position as a prime location for investment and growth.
