Telford on way to being hi-tech hotspot
Telford is becoming a hotspot for technology-related businesses, a new report has claimed.
The study by accounting giant KPGM and Markit found the town was one of the top five in the West Midlands for the number of tech enterprises.
It is in fourth place on the list, with nine per cent of all businesses in the area now focused on tech.
Warwick held the top spot in the region with 14 per cent of tech enterprises, followed by Coventry on 12 per cent and Solihull on 11 per cent.
Of all UK regions, The West Midlands is number four among UK regions regarding the on the national list of those with the greatest proportion of tech sector enterprises, with such firms making up 6.8 per cent of businesses within the region.
Mike Steventon, Midlands regional chair for KPMG, said: "It is important that the UK has a strong tech sector and vital for the West Midlands to be at the forefront of innovation, so it is hugely encouraging to see our region's tech industry grow by 25 per cent in just five years.
"Perhaps more importantly, We are carving out niches in the West Midlands, building on our region's heritage in areas such as automotive and manufacturing, but doing so in a modern and innovative way. This creation of tech centres of excellence will create a virtuous circle of attracting global investment and acting as a magnet to the best tech talent."
Tech is defined in this report as technology software, technology services and manufacturing of technology equipment.
Mr Steventon added: "Although we have seen the number of tech enterprises grow so significantly, we can't take this for granted. It is important we see the tech sector prioritised by national and local government and also put real focus on key issues such as STEM subject education, investment in regional infrastructure, including broadband, and an adequate regulatory framework."
