Exeter
One of the fastest growing economic centres
of the South West.
Strategically important, at the
intersection between major road and rail routes to Devon and
Cornwall, London, the South East and the Midlands.
Population growth of 10% from 1991 to 2001 - four
times the national average. This reflects the general inward
migration trend for the South West of England, which is a
magnet for some of the most talented and qualified people in the
UK.
Home to one of the UK's biggest corporate
relocations in recent years. The Met Office famously moved
its headquarters from Bracknell to a purpose-built operations
centre in Exeter. This involved relocating 1,000 staff and
developing a massive new IT infrastructure. The Met Office is the
world's leading organisation in weather prediction and global
climate change. Staff preference and the strong links with the
University of Exeter were cited as key factors in the decision to
move, along with the growing cost of accommodation in the South
East and the problems of congestion.
Exeter Science Park, on the
outskirts of the city, will be an engine for growth for
knowledge-based, scientific technological, engineering and medicine
(STEM) related enterprise in the region. The 24 hectare site
will offer extensive new facilities encouraging enterprise and will
offer high quality space for businesses ranging from start-ups to
major corporate headquarters.
Exeter will also benefit from the creation of a
high tech inter-modal rail freight handling
facility and distribution centre at Hayes Farm.
Follow this link to find out more about the other
Key Locations in
South West England.