Swindon’s community spirit and generosity has come to the fore this week following Honda’s announcement on Tuesday of its intention to close its plant in Swindon in 2021.
The Council and partners have received practical offers of support from businesses and individuals from across Swindon, Wiltshire and beyond.
Earlier this week a Taskforce met in Swindon, co-chaired by the Business Secretary Greg Clark, the Leader of Swindon Council David Renard and the Chair of Swindon Local Enterprise Partnership John Mortimer.
In a joint statement released yesterday, the Taskforce set out its first priority, which is to make the case to Honda that investment in vehicles of the future is best done in Swindon.
Should Honda Japan decide, at the end of the consultation period with its Swindon workforce, that it will proceed with its plan to vacate the site, then the Taskforce will do everything it can to support the workers along with those working in the supply chain and the wider community across Swindon, and the whole of Wiltshire.
The Council asks that all offers of support be sent to support@swindon.gov.uk where they can be coordinated and considered.
Councillor Oliver Donachie, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Prosperity, said: “I have been impressed by the generosity and spirit shown by the Swindon and wider community this week, offering practical help and support to everyone affected by Honda’s announcement.
“We must respect that Honda needs to go through a formal process of consulting its workforce in Swindon before any final decisions are taken. This will take time to do.
“As part of the work of the Swindon Taskforce, we would ask for any further kind offers of support be sent to support@swindon.gov.uk, so we can coordinate and follow-up as and when appropriate.”