The growth of Swindon

Swindon started life as a small market town, which then grew considerably after the Great Western Railway chose to build its main engineering works there in 1841. When the engineering industry declined, Swindon's future was uncertain, but hi-tech and multinational companies continue to prosper.

Swindon's unique position, which combines an ideal business location with outstanding countryside, right at the heart of the UK, has contributed to its above average growth and productivity, and is further supported by its reputation for excellent telecommunications links.

New business formation in Swindon, particularly VAT registered businesses, shows positive growth. Between 2000 and 2004, Swindon experienced a 4.18% rise in such businesses compared to a national rate of 3.53%.

Some 300,000 people live within 20 miles of the town centre and forecasts show employment in the borough is set to grow by nearly 10% over the next 10-12 years. This is significantly higher than the forecast national average of just over 6%.

Future growth

As a direct result of the implementation of the Regeneration Framework, Swindon will continue to mature and grow. The following is a summary of the key growth outcomes:

£1 billion total investment value will be created (at 2004 prices)
10,000 new jobs will be created in the Town centre and surround area of Swindon
385,000 square metres of total development on 50 hectares of land including:

3,000 new homes
90,000 square metres of new office space
100,000 square metres of retail and leisure space