Royal London relocates to Alderley Park

The UK’s largest mutual life, pensions and investment company, Royal London, is set to relocate to Alderley Park’s Parklands in a deal that will keep 1,200 jobs in the area.

Royal London also announced that Royal London Asset Management remains committed to its Wilmslow site and hopes that its masterplan will come to fruition. Subject to planning, this comprises mixed-use commercial, retail and housing opportunities that would have the potential to create a further 1,500 to 2,000 jobs.

Neil Kilshaw, head of group facilities and estate transformation at Royal London, said: “It has long been recognised by Royal London and by Cheshire East Council that our existing buildings in Wilmslow no longer meet the needs of a growing modern business like ours.

“We have thoroughly investigated a range of possible sites, including remaining at a redeveloped Wilmslow campus or moving out of the borough. Our exhaustive search has convinced us that Cheshire East and Parklands, at Alderley Park, is the best possible location for our business and our staff.”

Parklands offers staff access to a range of family-focused amenities, sports and gym facilities, and a rural location. The move is expected to take place before 2020.

Cheshire East Council said that its wholly-owned Skills and Growth Company had taken the lead in making the case as to why the company should stay in the borough.

Rachel Bailey, Cheshire East Council leader, said: “This is excellent news and I wish to thank Royal London for demonstrating its faith in and loyalty to the borough by choosing to stay in Cheshire East. Royal London has recognised that our expanding economic base, together with the skills and talents of our working residents, combine to offer a sustainable and successful future for the company based in Cheshire East.”