Council’s Growth Fund powers jobs and business growth across Telford and Wrekin
Telford & Wrekin Council’s innovative Growth Fund has been praised for its continued success in delivering high-quality industrial premises, creating jobs, and supporting local businesses, as highlighted in a report being presented to the Business & Finance Scrutiny Committee on 5 November 2025.
Since its launch in November 2015, the Growth Fund has committed over £30.5 million into strategic developments across the borough, including sites at Ni.Park, Hortonwood West, and Orchard Business Park. These investments have helped attract new businesses, support existing firms to expand, and provide vital grow-on space for start-ups.
The Fund, which combines prudential borrowing with external investment from Homes England, has delivered a gross return of 7.76% on borrowing, with additional rental income and business rates reinvested into frontline services. This includes support for older residents in residential and domiciliary care, demonstrating the wider social value of the Council’s investment strategy.
Councillor Ollie Vickers, Telford & Wrekin Council, Cabinet Member for Economy & Transport, said: “The Growth Fund is a cornerstone of our commitment to protect, care and invest in building a better Borough. It’s enabling us to respond to market demand, support local businesses, and create the infrastructure needed for a thriving economy. This approach is not only delivering financial returns but also creating real opportunities for residents and businesses including the creation of 415 new jobs across Telford and Wrekin. It’s about building a resilient, inclusive economy for the future.”
Recent developments include:
- Orchard Business Park: 24 new units completed in September 2023, offering high-spec premises with solar panels and EV charging points.
- Ni.Park, Newport: Two phases of development delivering 27 units, many linked to the agri-tech sector and Harper Adams University, with sustainable features ahead of regulatory requirements.
- Leasows Court: Units supporting small businesses and addressing gaps in local supply.
The Council’s ability to offer a full turnkey solution from land acquisition to building management continues to attract significant inward investment. Companies such as ATW Couriers and KDS Solutions Ltd have expanded into new premises, while demand for starter and grow-on units remains strong.
The Growth Fund supports the Council’s priorities to ensure everyone benefits from a thriving economy and that all neighbourhoods are great places to live. With low vacancy rates across the Council’s 350+ industrial units and ongoing interest from investors, Telford & Wrekin is firmly established as a leading destination for business growth.