The event brought together public and private sector stakeholders to explore the town’s evolving economic narrative and the regeneration efforts shaping its future.
Speakers included Tim Major from the Chamber of Commerce, alongside Matt Peachey and Andrew Wells from Swindon Borough Council, with FIREM sharing insights into the transformation of 1 Newbridge Square. The tone of the event was forward-looking, with strong alignment around a shared ambition to reinvigorate Swindon as a town of opportunity, investment and inclusive growth.
Confidence in regeneration
Throughout the session, it was clear that momentum is building across Swindon. Private sector interest is on the rise, with FIREM’s redevelopment of 1 Newbridge Square cited as a strong example of investor confidence in the area. The scheme was recognised by Swindon Borough Council as a key milestone in changing perceptions of the town and demonstrating that major investment is already underway.
This confidence is underpinned by substantial public sector backing. Swindon Borough Council is taking a proactive and strategic role in supporting regeneration, with a clear vision for inclusive economic growth that benefits residents, businesses and the wider community. One of the key infrastructure projects currently underway is the £33 million investment into Fleming Way, which will significantly enhance connectivity and better integrate the town centre - laying the groundwork for future development.
In parallel, the Council is committed to cultural and community-led reinvestment. A budget of £180 million has been allocated to reshape the heart of Swindon, with plans that go beyond physical infrastructure. There is a deliberate focus on ensuring that a significant portion of this investment - up to 40–50% - is delivered through local suppliers. This approach is designed to support local jobs and businesses, helping to recirculate economic value and create meaningful, long-term impact across the community.
A repositioned Swindon
With affordability, connectivity and space all on its side, Swindon is steadily repositioning itself as a competitive and desirable location for business relocation and growth. Strategically located between London and Bristol, the town is already home to major occupiers, including Apple’s largest Research & Development facility outside of the United States, a clear sign of its strength as a hub for innovation.
The Council’s priorities for the coming years include progressing the Kimmerfields regeneration project in partnership with the private sector, enhancing the vibrancy of the town centre, and further improving infrastructure to make Swindon a more connected and sought after place to live, work and invest.
Looking to the future
FIREM is proud to be playing its part in this next chapter. The investment in 1 Newbridge Square is just one element in a much wider story - one that reflects renewed confidence in the town’s future and the real potential that exists here.
There is a real opportunity to now shape Swindon’s next chapter - not just through bricks and mortar, but through meaningful partnerships, shared vision, and inclusive economic progress. By aligning ambition across sectors and putting local people and businesses at the heart of regeneration, Swindon is not only redefining its place on the map but setting a benchmark for what purposeful investment can achieve.
For more information or to arrange a viewing, please visit www.1newbridgesquare.com or contact Dom Knowles, FI Real Estate Management, at dknowles@fi-rem.com or 0845 500 6161