Conference showcases growing optimism for the future of Crewe

South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce has hailed its new conference focusing on the regeneration and future growth of Crewe and the wider region as a major success, attracting more than 70 business leaders and stakeholders.

The Future of Crewe – Unlocking Crewe and South Cheshire’s Potential, held on April 29 at Crewe Hall, brought together decision-makers, investors and local businesses for a day of insight, discussion and collaboration.

The event featured keynote speaker Mark Edwards, Director at Capital & Centric, who shared perspectives on urban regeneration and the key ingredients behind its successful town and city transformation projects including Goods Yard, Stoke – a former warehouse now a buzzing neighbourhood of homes, bars and social spaces.

Speakers from a range of influential organisations contributed to the programme, including the British Chambers of Commerce, Cheshire East Council, Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and representatives from Crewe’s UK Town of Culture bid.

Among them were Lyceum Theatre director and Chair of Crewe’s bid for UK Town of Culture Graham McKnight who spoke about Crewe’s cultural ambitions, and Russ Favager and Chris Knights, who provided an update on the £1.3bn Leighton Hospital development – the size of 14 football pitches.

Further contributions came from Head of Corporate Governance & Business Environment Policy at the British Chambers, Jonny Haseldine outlining the national business landscape, Cheshire East Council deputy leader Michael Gorman who discussed Crewe 360 regeneration around the station and a long-term vision to see Crewe hailed Best Small City.

The conference opened with an address from Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman who also joined a business panel discussion alongside Adam Sullivan CEO Baywater Healthcare and Bentley Motors Director of Government Relations & CSR Sally Hepton with an update on electric vehicle production and a special anniversary – 80 years of car manufacturing in Crewe.

Paul Colman said the event marked an important milestone for the area:

“For the first time there has been a dedicated space to talk about the regeneration of Crewe and South Cheshire as a whole.

“The conference focused on what’s happening now, where the opportunities are, and how local businesses can play a part.

“It was incredibly encouraging to see such strong engagement. Bringing together over 70 stakeholders has helped galvanise support for Crewe and capture the growing momentum behind its future development.

“Overall the conference was a big success and already we are planning the next.”

With major change taking shape in Crewe including The Dome Youth Zone and Heritage Centre, there was an undercurrent of confidence for Crewe’s future.

Supporting this is One Crewe, the good news platform driven by the Chamber, which is leading the way in changing perceptions, spreading positivity and helping to restore civic pride.