In a significant step towards bolstering local economic growth and governance, the newly formed Economic Advisory Board (EAB) recently held its inaugural meeting, which was well-attended by a wide range of stakeholders representing businesses, local authorities, and educational institutions.

The meeting marked a key milestone in the official transfer of responsibilities from the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership (SWLEP) to the newly-established Swindon and Wiltshire Business and Growth Unit being provided by Wiltshire Council.

The EAB will play a pivotal role in shaping the economic landscape of the region, providing governance and oversight as part of the local authority’s broader strategy to support sustainable growth and business innovation across both Swindon and Wiltshire.

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
  • Cllr Richard Clewer, Leader of Wiltshire Council and Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Heritage, Arts, and Tourism
  • Iain Hatt, Principal, Wiltshire College and University Centre
  • Andy Hogben, Managing Director, Chemring Countermeasures
  • Ruth Lambert, Development Manager, Federation of Small Businesses (Somerset and Wiltshire)
  • 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
  • Cllr Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council
  • James Watson, Panattoni UK Developments Ltd
  • Debbie Williams, Managing Director

These members bring together a wealth of expertise to shape the strategic direction of the Swindon and Wiltshire Business and Growth Unit (SWBGU).

New Role of the Economic Advisory Board

The EAB has been tasked with advising and guiding the Business and Growth Unit, which was created to centralise economic development efforts, following the transfer of roles and responsibilities from SWLEP. The Board is comprised of senior leaders from key sectors, including business, education, and public services. By fostering close collaboration across these areas, the EAB aims to develop initiatives that are responsive to the evolving needs of local businesses and industries.

Co-Chair of the EAB and leader of Swindon Borough Council, Cllr Jim Robbins, opened the meeting by highlighting the Board’s role in supporting both Swindon Borough Council and Wiltshire Council’s strategic objectives for economic growth. This includes driving forward projects aimed at improving infrastructure, increasing digital capability, and enhancing the local skills base to ensure businesses have access to a highly skilled workforce. The Board’s advisory capacity will ensure that economic decisions are aligned with the local needs of Swindon and Wiltshire, and that businesses are well-supported as they navigate challenges such as workforce development, investment opportunities, and post-pandemic recovery.

Key Topics Discussed

Several critical topics were discussed during the meeting, setting the tone for the Board’s future activities. Among the key themes were:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

Looking Ahead

The EAB’s work will be instrumental in ensuring that Wiltshire Council’s Business and Growth Unit remains focused on delivering its key priorities, including the enhancement of skills, infrastructure, and business support across the region. The Board will continue to meet regularly, offering strategic guidance and monitoring the progress of key projects. Its members will play an active role in ensuring that the region’s economic growth is inclusive, sustainable, and aligned with the needs of businesses and communities.

Speaking after the meeting, Cllr 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.”

Cllr 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.”

For more information on the Economic Advisory Board and its role within the Business and Growth Unit, please contact [email protected]