The latest news, events and opportunities in the region and beyond
Welcome to the May edition of Business i.
It’s been a significant month for regional politics, with local elections attracting national attention, although with relatively few contests here in the South West.
Alongside that, government policy on devolution continues to shape conversations across our region, and beyond. With new powers comes increased accountability and broader responsibilities for local decision-making and investment. It’s a significant shift, and one that presents real opportunities for regions like ours.
In the West of England, Mayor Helen Godwin is setting a clear direction for growth, building on strong foundations. The region is the country’s fastest-growing regional economy, something we can all be proud of, and, importantly, build upon.
Next week, Business West will be heading to UKREiiF in Leeds. We’re excited to champion the South West and showcase the compelling investment opportunities that will help accelerate our region’s economic growth even further.
As you take some time to explore this newsletter, I’d like to ask one important favour: please complete our Quarterly Economic Survey. Your insights are critical. They allow us to strengthen the case for business, shape our advocacy, and ensure we are clearly communicating what’s working well, and where more support is needed.
Best wishes,
Douglas Ure
Chief Executive Officer, Business West
Top Stories
Share your voice in the Quarterly Economic Survey
The Q2 Quarterly Economic Survey is now open, and we need your voice. This is the largest independent business survey in the UK, and your response helps local and national policymakers to understand business needs and to inform economic policy.
Is AI the leadership issue of our time?
At our last Bristol Initiative roundtable, delivered in partnership with Deloitte, members convened to explore a critical tension in the modern economy: how do you deploy AI in a way that supports your organisation and delivers real benefits?
Local News
Fastest-growing region steps up investment push
The West of England is taking its case for further public and private investment to the national stage, as regional leaders prepare to showcase the area at the UK’s Real Estate Investment & Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds next week. Plans being promoted include major developments at Brabazon, Bristol Temple Quarter, and the West Innovation Arc, alongside ambitions for tens of thousands of new homes and jobs and improved transport connections across the region.
South West election results alter the local political landscape
Local election results across the region paint a mixed political picture with Reform Party and the Green Party facing an increased vote share. In Swindon, Labour lost control of the council falling from 41 seats to 19. The Conservatives advanced and Reform entered the chamber with 14 seats, leaving no overall control. In the coming days, councillors will discuss Swindon’s future governance arrangements, electing a new Leader and Cabinet.
Skills
Technical Excellence Colleges announced for the South West, boosting regional skills
The government has announced a second wave of Technical Excellence Colleges (TECs) as part of a £175 million investment in priority skills. Business West, which delivers Local Skills Improvement Plans across the West of England and North Somerset, Gloucestershire, Somerset, and Swindon and Wiltshire, has welcomed the designation of four colleges in key growth sectors: Gloucestershire College (Digital and Technologies), Weston College Group (Advanced Manufacturing), UCS College Group (Clean Energy) and Yeovil College (Defence).
Employers driving real change through Local Skills Improvement Plans
A new report from the British Chambers of Commerce shows that Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs) are delivering clear benefits for employers, education providers and learners across the country.
Our latest blog explores the impact of the LSIPs so far and how your business can get involved.