Oxfordshire: Ed Vaizey MP announces 1,000+ job growth at Milton Park

More than 1,000 additional people now work at Milton Park in Oxfordshire than 12 months ago, thanks to the growth of existing businesses and a number of new companies being attracted to the Park as part of the Science Vale UK Enterprise Zone.

Ed Vaizey MP announced Milton Park’s increased job numbers at the Job Fair, an initiative working with the Didcot Job Centre Plus team and held at Milton Park’s Innovation Centre, which was organised to help his constituents to find jobs in the buoyant employment market in the local area.  The event attracted 14 companies including: Asda, Sainsburys, McDonalds, The Army, Aim Apprenticeships, and Oxfordshire Apprenticeships, and more than 170 people looking for employment.

Milton Park’s job numbers have increased by 1,033 from 6,493 to 7,526 in the past 12 months, with more than 50 new businesses arriving at the Park, which now accommodates 250 companies, according to its annual headcount survey.

Vaizey said: “I am delighted that the Job Fair has attracted some great employers matching up more than 170 people looking for local employment. It’s been a huge success, and I am very grateful to both MEPC who run Milton Park and the local Job Centre Plus team for making it such a great day.

"It was a pleasure to have been able to announce the addition of 1,033 new jobs at Milton Park’s over the last year, from across the vibrant mix of companies working on the Park from manufacturing and medical services to mobile technology which are employing local people and driving growth.  Milton Park has played a significant part in the overall national Enterprise Zone success story locally and it’s fantastic to have them in my constituency.”

James Dipple, chief executive officer, MEPC, said: “The Job Fair has been a great success for both employers and employees.  In the past year, Milton Park has seen job numbers significantly increase: an indication of an improving Oxfordshire and national economy and the many companies, from SMEs to global corporates, who have seen growth as they continue to innovate and expand.  Our Enterprise Zone status has hugely helped as we have welcomed businesses who can take advantage of this Government initiative.  We pride ourselves on being a world-class engine for innovation and growth and helping our customers to grow.”

During the Job Fair, Ed Vaizey met five of the Milton Park-based companies, from biotechnology companies to house builders, which have seen growth and increased staff numbers.

As a gesture, Milton Park has donated £1,033 to BBC Children in Need.