Special guests filled the foyer of Zurich’s new state-of-the-art offices in Swindon town centre to celebrate its official opening.
The insurance company has finished moving more than 1,000 employees from the old Tricentre building to the eco-friendly modern site and completed work on sections of Unity Place that were closed off when the Adver had a look around last year.
Dozens of staff gathered around the main atrium and staircase to watch the momentous occasion.
Zurich UK CEO Tim Bailey said: “Having grown up in Swindon, it’s great to be able to give something back to the community I had such a great start in.
“It’s crucial we can give local people the chance to build a career in their hometown.
“This includes investing in a building that will enhance the lives of employees and the wider community.
“Zurich is pleased to support Swindon Borough Council and the government’s continued investment in the town, to encourage local economic growth.
“We look forward to strengthening our strong links with local schools, businesses, and our charity partners through the work of our community trust, which marks its 50th anniversary this year.”
Zurich Community Trust-supported good causes like Big Breakfast Plus, The Harbour Project, Mind Swindon and Gloucester, Swindon Carers Centre, The Recovery Tree, and Swindon Women’s Aid attended, along with pupils from Ferndale and Lethbridge Primary Schools and Nyland School who took part in an art competition, Swindon Borough Council leader David Renard, and the town’s MPs Robert Buckland and Justin Tomlinson.
Mr Buckland did the honours by pressing the button to open a digital plaque unveiled on the ground floor’s big-screen TV.
Mr Tomlinson added: “It’s fantastic to see Unity Place come to fruition and provide such a wonderful addition to Swindon’s local economy.
"Zurich plays a major part in the local economy and its work to support the local community through Zurich Community Trust is invaluable.
"I am thrilled that Zurich has continued to invest in Swindon and I have no doubt this will encourage other businesses to follow suit in our growing town.”
The building has been designed to rank among the top 10 per cent of commercial buildings for sustainability in the UK, with electric car charging points, a storage and repair centre for bicycles, improved recycling points, energy-efficient LED lighting, and a beehive on the roof.
It will be powered completely by renewable electricity.
The winning entry to the school art competition will be on display in the café.
Here are some of the photos from Swindon Advertiser's exclusive visit to the building before the opening
EXCLUSIVE: The Adver had a look around Zurich’s new eco-friendly Swindon town centre offices pic.twitter.com/Aa6YJugSIE
— Daniel Angelini (@Adver_Daniel) November 17, 2022
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