Bracknell

The news this week that Dell computers will be cutting staff in Bracknell is a clear indication of just how fragile the nation's economy is at present.

Whatever the final figure at Dell, job losses look certain to be in the hundreds. And yet, just a few years ago, it appeared that nothing but nothing could slow the success story of the Silcon Valley.

Companies were literally queuing up to snap up office space in the Bracknell area.

Who could blame them?

We have an excellent skilled and highly motivated workforce. Road, rail and air links must be the envy of virtually every other part of the country - and, as an added bonus, Bracknell is a nice place to live.

But first we saw the drift away of the Met Office - perhaps Bracknell's original claim to employment fame.

Then the hi tech companies began shedding staff and fewer were coming to Bracknell looking for suitable places to set up business.

Hopefully, it is all no more than an economic blip - albeit a dramatic shock for those faced with Christmas in the jobseekers queue.

But it also provides clear evidence that we should not sit back on our successes.

If Bracknell is really to continue its growth and earn a place in the top spots of the nation, it needs to make sure there are no reasons that the town is considered a second choice by employers.

That means the regeneration of the town centre is not just a good idea - it is an absolute necessity.

And so too is giving the town its own hospital.

ic Berkshire ~ Nov 3 2005