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Location

Being located to the east of London in the Thames Gateway, and to the north of Southend urban area, the District of Rochford offers a very well-connected business base, yet a distinctly historic and rural setting and experience. Benefitting from an east-west strategic highway network (A127 and A13) into London, M25 and beyond, and north-south links to Chelmsford (A1245 and A130). Major future investment across South Essex will further enhance our connectivity. This coastal District has three main towns; Rayleigh, Hockley and Rochford, as well as a number of outlying villages and hamlets.

About us:

Home to over 3,600 businesses, the majority of businesses which are located in the District are micro to medium sized and we will continue to support their development.  However, there is significant potential for larger businesses to thrive here, especially with the development of a brand new large, high quality business park within a short distance of London Southend Airport and the London Liverpool Street line, which connects businesses with the capital in under an hour.

Business Base:

The District is a hotbed of entrepreneurialism of which over 90% are micro-businesses. There are particularly strong clusters in Aviation, Advanced Manufacturing and Environmental Services, whilst there is also a growing opportunity in Creative and Digital Services. We punch above our weight and are home to thriving businesses with a national and global presence.

Reasons to Invest:

Grow your business in Rochford District There are so many reasons why you should consider investing in Rochford District, including:

Over 60 trains per day

Into London Liverpool Street taking from 44 minutes, whilst London Stratford can be reached in just 33 minutes

Fantastic for start-ups

Rochford District has one of the highest business survival rates in Essex, with almost 50% of start-ups surviving past 5 years.

A great skills base

With high quality local schools, a range of further/higher education on the doorstep and responsible employers with active programmes of vocational training – above average for NVQ3+ skills.

A growing international airport

London Southend Airport is on the doorstep with its own train station, and direct links to destinations across Europe.

Space to grow

1 million+ sq ft of prime business space under development at Airport Business Park, plus a range of bustling employment sites across the district.

The ‘green lung of South Essex’

Offering tranquil countryside and woodland and miles of unspoilt coastline, perfect for walking, cycling, sailing, birdwatching, photography and horse-riding

Cost-effective

With commercial property costs the lowest in South Essex and average labour costs 30% lower than London and 15% lower than Chelmsford, your investment goes further in Rochford District

Broadband connectivity

Much of the District is connected to ultrafast and superfast broadband, with a further £4.5m of funding to bring gigabit connectivity to all corners of the District.

Quality of life

With a low crime rate, leafy open spaces, our wide choice of housing and 3 historic market towns, it is a great place to live.

Get in touch: Rochford District Council’s Economic Development team is here to help you make the case for Rochford District being your business location of choice. If you are considering relocating here or setting up a new business, we’d love to hear from you.

01702 318146

business@rochford.gov.uk

For further information on investing in Rochford District please visit the Council website: https://www.rochford.gov.uk/invest-in-rochford-district