Andrew Swayne Chair for the Adur & Worthing Business Partnership and is a Coastal West Sussex Partnership Board member.
We spoke to Andrew to hear more about his role and what he enjoys about living and working in the Coastal West Sussex region.
Hi Andrew, what does your job entail?
Working with the businesses, councils and education partners to advocate for our needs for regeneration, business support, public investment particularly with Greater Brighton and Coast to Capital. Speaking on behalf of the business community and thinking ahead.
What are the top things you love about working in the coastal West Sussex region?
Personally – I only have to drive 6 miles to work. When I work from home, I look out of my window on to the Downs. I am close to Gatwick Airport. As a sailor and Scout leader, I am close lots of natural assets.
What advice would you give to someone looking to start a business in the region?
- Much help and support is available.
- There is a wide-ranging skill base for growing your business.
- Think about how our wonderful environment can help your work-life balance.
- Our excellent digital infrastructure is easily available.
- In a pre-Covid world, we have great international accessibility via Gatwick
- Get involved – there is a big support network.
What would you like to see change in the region to help your business grow?
- Significant upgrade to digital infrastructure with faster implementation
- A working road system – I am still waiting for promised improvements which were advertised when I moved to Worthing 35 years ago!
- Our places being outstanding as we will have increased working from home.
- Levelling out that understands that we have significant issues along the coast and in Greater Brighton economies which are compounded by Covid-19.
What tips would you give to someone thinking of visiting the region for a holiday?
- We have outstanding natural assets (Chichester Harbour, National Park, coast etc).
- We have great heritage sites.
- We have great events, sport, culture, arts
- The region is family friendly, with something for all ages.
- There is a huge variety of accommodation
- It’s easy to get to from London and the Solent regions