Council highlights economic progress and future growth opportunities
At today's Cabinet meeting, Telford & Wrekin Council reported significant progress on its Economic Development Strategy. The update emphasised Invest Telford's ongoing efforts to bring in new investment, assist local businesses, and improve skills training throughout the Borough.
Telford and Wrekin’s economy remain one of the strongest in the region, with £5.4bn GVA, 5,900 active enterprises and manufacturing and engineering accounting for 15.5% of local jobs more than double the national average. Unemployment remains below the UK average.
During 2025, Invest Telford engaged with more than 300 businesses and delivered a range of UK Shared Prosperity Fund programmes. These include 77 contracted business grant and innovation projects, support for over 100 new start-ups through Start Up Telford, targeted growth support for established SMEs and innovation assistance through Innovate Telford.
The Council has also established the Invest Telford Partnership, a senior level forum bringing together major employers, education providers and the Council to shape economic priorities, share business intelligence and strengthen collaboration following the closure of the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership.
Cabinet also noted the Borough’s growing defence sector, including Rheinmetall’s confirmation that Telford will be home to its new UK large-calibre barrel production facility, expected to create more than 400 jobs directly and indirectly. An investment into the Borough that was the direct result of the Councils engagement with Rheinmetall and the case being made for why Telford rather than other locations across the country.
Progress on skills was also highlighted. The Skills for Growth partnership brings together Harper Adams University, Telford College and In-Comm Training to provide a coordinated, employer-led skills offer, while the Invest Telford Partnership continues to strengthen collaboration between business, education and the Council.
Councillor Ollie Vickers, Cabinet Member for The Economy & Transport, said: “This report shows that our Economic Development Strategy is being delivered at pace and with impact. We are supporting local businesses, attracting significant investment and ensuring that our skills system responds directly to employer need. Our ambition is clear, to build a resilient, inclusive economy that creates high-quality opportunities for local people and long-term prosperity for the Borough.”