SWEP forum a great success
Over 80 representatives from the local business world attended the bi-annual South Wiltshire Economic Partnership (SWEP) Forum on Wednesday October 27th.
Representatives from small and large business, finance, science, technology and manufacturing came together to hear about the exciting opportunities that await the future economic prosperity of the region.
Three guest speakers gave special talks on how to achieve greater ambitions for South Wiltshire. Richard Byard, from Reading Borough Council explained how great strides had been made in boosting the local economy by working in partnership with other council departments, neighbouring authorities, government, government agencies, the private sector and local residents.
Solstice Park representative, Peter Barefoot of Alder King Property Consultants gave an overview of what Solstice Park has to offer the region. And Salisbury District Council's portfolio holder for Planning and Economic Development, Cllr John Noeken, revealed how the council was looking at the future of the city's largest existing business park, the Churchfields Industrial Estate.
SWEP Chairman, Stephen Woodhouse, said: "The presentations were inspiring. We should all be very ambitious for South Wiltshire – the opportunities are limitless.
"In Reading they have had amazing success in promoting their local economy and it was fascinating to hear about the work they have done there. We can learn a lot from listening to other regions. In South Wiltshire there are many exciting opportunities with the new business park at Solstice Park and with major places of excellence for scientific research right on our doorstep.
"And it was very interesting to hear about the detailed work our council has undertaken on the city's oldest and biggest industrial estate. It is not just about looking at the new, but also protecting and enhancing what we already have in South Wiltshire."
The Forum is one of a series of networking events organised by Salisbury District Council's economic development team on behalf of SWEP, a partnership of private businesses and the council. The aim of SWEP is to bring together all those organisations from the public and private sector with a common interest in the development of Salisbury and South Wiltshire's economy.
Cllr John Noeken said: "This has been another fantastic Forum, it really gives the public and private sector the opportunity to learn about what is happening and how we can work together for the better of South Wiltshire. We cannot achieve all our goals in isolation, it is only by working together that we can ensure a vibrant future for our district.
"I am delighted I had the opportunity to let the local business community know about the work the council has been doing at the Churchfield's Industrial Estate. Our report on Chruchfield's and our take on its future will be published in a special report next month and discussed at the next Cabinet meeting."
Any local businesses who would like to find out more about the work of SWEP should contact Richard Weavis on 01722 434677 or visit www.southwiltshire.com
Issued on behalf of the South wiltshire Economic Partnership, October 29 2004
For more information contact Celine Mills or Hannah Barker on 01722 434329.