Muse to back The Business Desk's first-ever South West of England Business Conference
04.11.25 3 min read
We have been announced as the lead partner of The Business Desk’s first ever South West Conference.
Taking place on 24 February 2026 at M Shed in Bristol, The South West of England Conference will bring together public and private sector leaders, investors and policymakers to highlight the region’s growing role in the UK’s economic future and explore how the South West can build a thriving, sustainable economy powered by place-based investment, regeneration and innovation.
Law firm Ashford’s has also been confirmed as a sponsor. The event, which will host over 15 talks, panels and events throughout the day, will open with a keynote from Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, followed by Simon Harding-Roots, Managing Director at Muse for the South. Simon will share insights on how long-term regeneration and placemaking can drive lasting economic success.
Other topics that will be explored include preparing for generational change across the built environment, the region’s growing industrial sector and a fireside chat with Nick Sturge on Bristol’s innovation investment opportunity.
Tom Jackson, Senior Development Manager at Muse, will join a panel to examine how recent large-scale regenerations are delivering lasting economic impact that is felt nationally and locally. For us, this includes our Wapping Wharf project in Bristol, which created a new 450 home neighbourhood and community of independents overlooking the city’s Historic Floating Harbour, and the reimaging of the once-derelict Millbay site in Plymouth through our English Cities Fund (ECF) partnership with Legal & General and Homes England.
Muse is also working as part of a 20+ year partnership with BCP Council to redevelop several sites across the town centre, to deliver essential new homes, and enhance connectivity and culture.
Tom Jackson, Senior Development Manager at Muse, says:
“This conference comes at a crucial time for the South West. As major regeneration and infrastructure projects gather pace across the region, it’s vital that we come together to share ideas, build partnerships and maintain momentum.”
“At Muse, we’ve been a partner in the region for over a decade through developments such as Wapping Wharf in Bristol, Millbay in Plymouth and a long-term partnership with Bournemouth Council. We’ve seen first-hand how communities can be lifted and place identity enhanced through investment that is driven by genuine collaboration with local people.”
“We believe the growth potential across the South West is significant, and are looking forward to coming together with local and industry leaders to explore how we work together to unlock that potential.”
Robert Buckland, South West editor of TheBusinessDesk.com said:
“The Business of South West Conference will bring together leaders and decision makers from across the region to inspire and excite businesses about the future.”
“We’re really pleased to be partnering with Muse to provide a platform where ambitious businesses can collaborate and share their vision for what’s next.”