Swindon-based insurance giant Zurich has celebrated the 'topping out' of its new Unity Place office building in the town centre.
North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson and senior figures from Swindon Borough Council, Zurich and construction firm Skanska were among the VIPs given a tour of the building, which is still under construction but has reached its maximum height.
Mr Tomlinson said: "I'm very proud to be here today to help celebrate this significant landmark, because we have had unprecedented challenging times over the last 18 months to two years, and today signifies a real huge vote of confidence in the Swindon economy.
"Yet more regeneration funding is secured that will deliver this wonderful building and future job opportunities.
"As a town we've had many, many challenges over the years, and each and every time we come out stronger."
He added: "Zurich's investment is a massive show of confidence in the local economy, once again proving that Swindon is an economnic powerhouse, whilst also reflecting the wider community's focus on sustainability and wellbeing."
Energy for the new building will be supplied by renewable sources. It will be free of single use plastic and also aim to be paperless, with no printing or filing and all post digitalised.
Electric car charging will also be installed for visitors along with extra facilities for cyclists, to encourage more sustainable means of getting to and from work.
Working with the community is a key focus for the project and Zurich has contacted local schools to create artwork for the hoardings around the site.
A competition to produce art for the interior of the building will be held at a later date.
Cllr David Renard, leader of Swindon Borough Council, said: “Zurich’s new state-of-the-art office building has been a positive beacon on Swindon’s skyline for many months now and it is absolutely fantastic to see it taking shape as it marks the start of £100m of investment in our town centre.
“It will not only maintain one of our top employers in Swindon, but help transform our town centre, increasing land values and encouraging additional investment to improve our town centre even further."
John Keppel, Zurich UK Chief Operating Officer said: “Today is a momentous date for us as we edge closer to completing Unity Place. As one of the county’s largest employers, we look forward to building on our strong links and partnerships with organisations in Swindon and beyond."
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