It’s traditional at this time of year to look ahead to what the next 12 months might bring, and also reflect on the past year.

It has been a year of great success – and much progress – at Skylon Park, with a hugely exciting 2019 to look forward to.

Work is starting on the new Centre for Cyber Security, a University of Wolverhampton project being delivered in partnership with Herefordshire Council and the Enterprise Zone, paving the way for the development of a truly innovative centre of excellence.

There will be a considerable amount of work on site throughout 2019 as the centre starts to take shape before it opens its doors in 2020. When complete it will offer the latest research and training facilities in the cyber defence sector as well as office space for cyber businesses.

This year will also see the start of work on the redevelopment of the historic Shell Store, transforming the building into a flagship business incubation and innovation centre covering more than 2,000 sq metres of employment space.

Over the next dozen years we expect this unique development to create more than 450 jobs, bringing huge economic benefits to the region.

Elsewhere, we have welcomed new companies such as Melcon and Acticare to the park, whilst KGD Industrial Services has developed a purpose-built facility on a five-acre site which will create 50 new jobs.

More companies will join us throughout 2019 as we continue to build our national reputation as an innovative, success-driven business community.

Finally, at the end of my first year as chairman of the Enterprise Zone, can I take this opportunity to wish all of you a happy, peaceful and prosperous new year.