The historic site was chosen as the backdrop for the Government’s announcement of its new Small Business Plan and a suite of measures aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the nation.
Since its inception in 2018, The Workshed has served as an innovation and business incubation centre, offering modern office space and support for Swindon’s burgeoning digital, tech, and creative business community, making it the perfect venue for today’s announcement.
During their two-hour visit, the Prime Minister and Business Secretary engaged with representatives from a diverse array of Swindon-based SMEs, including Bright Affect, Create Studios, Sinewave Energy Solutions Ltd, and SW Group Logistics Ltd. They were also joined by the Leader of Swindon Borough Council, Councillor Jim Robbins, and officers from the Council’s Inclusive Economy team.
Swindon is home to a thriving ecosystem of approximately 6,990 SMEs, which constitute 99.4% of all businesses in the Borough.
Earlier this year, Council Leader Councillor Jim Robbins, along with several Cabinet colleagues and senior council officers, visited Number 10 Downing Street to present the Council’s ‘Heart of Swindon’ town centre vision to the Government.
On the same day, a special investment summit at the House of Lords showcased Swindon’s robust economy and investment opportunities to businesses, investors, and Government officials.
Leader of the Council, Councillor Jim Robbins, commented:
“It is a clear endorsement for Swindon and its thriving SME community that The Workshed was chosen for the Prime Minister and Business Secretary’s visit, and the stage for announcing new national SME measures.
“SMEs form the backbone of our local economy and represent the vast majority of Swindon businesses. The Workshed is an example of the supportive environment we offer for digital, tech, and creative businesses to collaborate, innovate, and grow. The office space is ideal for flexibility and convenience – whether businesses want to hot desk, a designated desk or an office, they can upscale easily, taking on more space.
“More generally, our pro-growth agenda is focussed on creating conditions in Swindon for all businesses to make it here.
“That includes progressing a clear ‘Heart of Swindon’ vision to rejuvenate the town centre and advancing new Economic and Skills Strategies that facilitate a strong, inclusive and prosperous local economy. The new Local Plan in development will also provide a clear and supportive framework for business growth, identifying suitable land for economic uses, and setting policies to unlock investment and job creation.”