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Council leader visits BMW's MINI Plant Swindon for talks on future plans

Looking back, 6 October 2026: Swindon Borough Council said its leader, Cllr Gary Sumner, had visited BMW Group's MINI Plant Swindon, which supports around 600 local jobs, to hear about the company's plans.

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Looking backThis story covers news from . Swindo wrote it later from the published source, and published it on 12 November 2026. More from that day

Last updated: 12 November 2026

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Swindo headline card: Council leader visits BMW's MINI Plant Swindon for talks on future plans
Image: Swindo headline card

Swindon Borough Council reported on Tuesday 6 October 2026 that Councillor Gary Sumner, its Leader, had toured BMW Group's MINI Plant Swindon to learn about the company's future plans and look at how the council and the plant could work more closely. The photo on the council's page is labelled 30 September 2026.

How big is the plant?

The council said BMW MINI supports around 600 jobs locally. The site's manufacturing history goes back to 1954, and the council described it as one of the most advanced facilities of its kind in the UK.

Cllr Sumner was shown BMW's investment in automated production, which supports MINI models made alongside the company's operations in Oxford.

What was discussed?

According to the council, the talks covered:

  • strengthening local supply chains
  • creating opportunities for local businesses
  • supporting advanced manufacturing in the borough

The council also pointed to BMW's community work, including support for local schools and colleges, STEM education, biodiversity work on the site, and local sport and culture.

Cllr Sumner said: "BMW MINI is one of Swindon's manufacturing success stories and a hugely important employer for our borough." He added: "We want Swindon to be the best place to do business, and strong relationships with employers like BMW are vital".

The council's article did not announce any new investment or changes to jobs.

More from Swindo: BMW Plant Swindon's reduced production schedule.

Source: Swindon Borough Council.

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