A Blueprint for Future-Ready Business Hubs.

While some regions are still waking up to the realities of climate change, Slough has already taken decisive action. Recognising that climate resilience underpins long-term growth, Slough Borough Council committed early to addressing both the causes and impacts of climate change, ensuring that future investment in transport, infrastructure, and development is genuinely sustainable.

In July 2019, the Council declared a political motion on climate change, signalling a clear intent to put the climate crisis at the heart of its policy-making. This led to the development of the Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan, a roadmap for creating a greener, more resilient town through five key objectives:

1. Reducing emissions from council estates and operations

2. Promoting energy efficiency, sustainable construction, and renewable energy

3. Encouraging sustainable transport and reducing car travel

4. Increasing recycling, reducing waste, and cutting overall resource consumption

5. Supporting residents, businesses, and services to adapt to climate change impacts

Ambitious targets

Slough has set an ambitious borough-wide target of carbon neutrality by 2040, with a stretch goal of 2030, well ahead of the UK’s national 2050 deadline. With clear alignment to national targets and a focused approach to local delivery, Slough is establishing itself as a global player.

Pat Hayes, Executive Director of Housing, Property, and Regeneration at Slough Borough Council says: “We’re planning for the next generation so climate resilience is built into every major decision we make, from housing and infrastructure to transport and energy. Our targets are ambitious because they have to be. Slough is committed to being a leader in sustainable regeneration, proving that towns can set the pace for meaningful change.”

Proactive approach to flood risk management

Slough has experienced its share of flood events in the past, with communities affected by river, surface water, sewer, and groundwater flooding. Thanks to the decisive work of Slough Borough Council, significant steps have been taken to address these challenges and reduce future risk. By investing in improved drainage infrastructure, ongoing maintenance of watercourses, and smarter flood planning, the council has strengthened the town’s resilience against extreme weather. These proactive measures not only help protect homes and businesses today but also ensure that long-term problems are avoided, giving residents and businesses greater peace of mind.

Innovative technology for a resilient future

Building on its proactive strategy, Slough is now leading the way in adopting cutting-edge solutions to combat flooding. Taking inspiration from Wuhan’s ‘sponge city’ concept, the council has begun transforming the borough’s infrastructure with absorbent roads and pavements. These permeable surfaces are designed to soak up rainwater, easing pressure on the existing drainage and flood defence systems.

Backed by up to £7.9 million in funding from the government’s £150 million Flood and Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme, this six-year project will focus on areas most affected by surface water flooding. Most of Slough’s wards, excluding Langley and Colnbrook with Poyle, will benefit from these upgrades, with a particular emphasis on the Chalvey Ditches and Salt Hill Stream River catchments.

In addition to infrastructure upgrades, the scheme includes the restoration of natural vegetation to improve water management and create greener, more sustainable public spaces. Advanced flood monitoring systems and increased community awareness are also key pillars of the project, ensuring that Slough is not only prepared for future events but is setting a benchmark for flood resilience nationwide.

Climate resilience as a catalyst for investment

Slough’s commitment to climate resilience is not just about environmental stewardship, it’s a strategic advantage for business. In an era where investors and occupiers are placing increasing emphasis on ESG criteria, Slough’s proactive approach makes it a natural choice for forward-thinking companies. From logistics to life sciences and tech start-ups, businesses are seeking locations that offer long-term security, sustainable infrastructure, and a clear pathway to net zero. Slough delivers on all three. Its central location, access to talent, and future-ready infrastructure are attracting businesses that want to operate responsibly and efficiently, now and into the future.