Key defence and security companies are eyeing up opportunities on Hereford’s Enterprise Zone following a high profile industry event.
More than 45 companies met with representatives from the Zone, which operates Skylon Park, at the recent Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) at London’s ExCel arena.
Up to 10 companies are now entering further discussions about the availability of land and ready-built accommodation on the 72-hectare site.
Visitors to DSEI included top-level international military staff, major procurement officials and businesses across the entire industry supply chain, from large prime contractors to supplying companies.
Skylon Park is the site designated as the Enterprise Zone of the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership, the private sector-led organisation tasked with revitalising the economy of Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin.
Bill Jackson, Chairman of the Hereford Enterprise Zone, said: “This is very positive news for the Zone and Skylon Park, especially as this was the first time that we have been represented at this prestigious event.
“As the only Enterprise Zone in the UK to have a dedicated defence and security focus, we feel that we have a very attractive offer to these organisations.
“We are hopeful that it may lead to more businesses moving or expanding onto Skylon Park, that will in turn boost the economic fortunes of the area.”
The area is home to a cluster of more than 80 defence and security sector companies, offering supply chain opportunities for investors moving onto Skylon Park.
Skylon Court, a £1.7 million development offering high quality business space, workshops and flexible units, has recently been completed and work is also under way on Skylon Place, a courtyard development of business units designed for small to medium sized enterprises.
Businesses moving onto Skylon Park can benefit from a range of incentives including simplified and free planning, superfast and ultrafast broadband and business rates relief.
