10 April 2025

Economic development updates

Next steps for Bridgwater Docks regeneration

Bridgwater Docks

Plans to transform Bridgwater Docks have taken an important step forward with our appointment of design consultants for the project.

The project is one of 11 schemes that fall under the umbrella of Bridgwater Town Deal that received £23.2million to regenerate and modernise Bridgwater town centre.

Yeovil Refresh: Glovers Walk demolition gets underway

L to R: Yeovil MP Adam Dance and Cllr Mike Rigby

A Major milestone in the regeneration of Yeovil has been reached with the start of demolition work on Glovers Walk by our contractors.

It’s one of 4 key development sites in the town earmarked for major investment as part of the Yeovil Refresh regeneration scheme and our Lead Member for Economic Development, Planning and Assets, Cllr Mike Rigby, was joined by Yeovil MP Adam Dance to see Walters UK begin the demolition process.

Partner updates

Celebrations for Somerset Business Awards 2025 winners

Credit: Somerset Chamber of Commerce

The winners of the 2025 Somerset Business Awards were announced at a glittering gala dinner and presentation at the Winter Gardens Pavilion, in Weston-super-Mare, on Friday (March 28).

Nearly 400 business people from across Somerset attended the gala evening, which was organised by Somerset Chamber of Commerce and hosted by Global and Heart FM broadcast journalist, Cormac MacMahon.

Small firms’ blues show how much Government growth push is needed

Small business confidence hit its lowest recorded point outside the COVID pandemic in the fourth quarter of last year, according to FSB’s Small Business Index (SBI).

The headline confidence reading fell from -24.4 points in Q3 to -64.5 points in Q4. This is a fall of 40.1 points, and the lowest reading on this measure since the -143.4 points registered in the first quarter of 2020, when COVID first broke out in the UK.

Business support

New Procurement Act events to boost public sector tendering

The New Procurement Act 2023 is transforming public sector procurement with a focus on efficiency, transparency, and fairness. We’re hosting free events across the county with procurement experts to help you navigate these changes, learn about the latest legislation, access opportunities, and improve your chances of winning public sector contracts.

Master Generative AI for Business with Techosaurus’ April cohort

Unlock the potential of Generative AI with Techosaurus’ award-winning AI Skills Bootcamp, delivered in partnership with Yeovil College. This 10-week program offers expert-led, hands-on training to help businesses enhance productivity and drive growth. With limited capacity and April 2025 dates available now, register today to secure your spot!

Accelerate your digital journey with HotSW Growth Hub’s Digital Link program

Empower your business with the Heart of the South West Growth Hub’s Digital Link service, designed to provide tailored support for embracing digital innovation. This program offers expert guidance, practical resources, and valuable insights to help you enhance your digital capabilities, streamline operations, and explore new markets. Equip your business with the tools and knowledge to thrive in today’s fast-paced digital landscape and unlock its growth potential.

Unlock your potential with the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses UK programme

Applications are open for the fully funded Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses UK programme, starting September 2025. This 13-week course helps small business leaders unlock growth with expert-led, practical business and management education. Delivered over 100 hours via online and in-person sessions, the programme is crafted by top entrepreneurial experts. To qualify, your business must have operated for 3+ years, employ 5-50 staff, and have a turnover between £250K and £15 million. Apply by 28 April!

Celebrate the best of British manufacturing with Make UK’s Manufacturing Awards 2025

These prestigious awards shine a spotlight on the innovators, leaders, and businesses driving excellence across the sector. With categories recognising achievements in sustainability, innovation, business growth, and more, this is your chance to showcase your success and gain industry-wide recognition. Entries are now open, so don’t miss the opportunity to highlight your contributions to UK manufacturing.

Nominations now open for Somerset’s 2025 Tourism Awards

Tourism and hospitality businesses in Somerset are invited to enter the 2025 Tourism Awards, with submissions open until 18 May. These free awards celebrate excellence across the sector, covering attractions, accommodation, sustainability, accessibility, and customer service. Organised by Services for Tourism, the awards provide a valuable opportunity to gain recognition, receive independent feedback, and enhance your profile. Winners may also represent Somerset nationally at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.

Business events

Check the following websites for a series of insightful upcoming business events, ranging from online networking to in-depth workshops and in-person training sessions.

Whether you’re looking to expand your network, gain new skills, or explore new opportunities, there’s something for all business types.

• Somerset Chamber of Commerce
• Federation of Small Businesses
• Heart of the South West Growth Hub

Contact us

If you have an Economic Development enquiry, get in touch with us at ecdev@somerset.gov.uk.