The Greater Manchester authority has lured an artificial intelligence firm away from the capital while pledging to be at the technology’s forefront.
Agilisys works with 120 councils across the UK, offering a number of services and products including AI software provision and support. This month, company made the shock announcement it was moving its headquarters from London to Wigan in the latest sign of ongoing changes to the distribution of Britain’s economy.
For the past decade, the firm has had a presence in the town, which lies in the west of Greater Manchester. But bosses have now confirmed it will completely rebase to the former Civic Centre, which is currently undergoing refurbishment.
‘Following the impressive revival of the old Civic building, which encouraged Agilisys to relocate their operations, this is an exciting sign of things to come with various other regeneration projects in the pipeline across the town centre,’ said Cllr Nazia Rehman.
‘With digital and AI technologies helping to transform services, it’s an incredibly exciting time for the council and Agilisys, and we’re really looking forward to continue our great work in this impressively repurposed Civic building,’ added Agilisys founder Charles Mindenhall. ‘This move will help us continue to grow and deliver for residents not just in Wigan borough, but across the country as well.’
Wigan Council also held an AI summit at the Civic on Friday 13th January, attended by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham alongside representatives from a number of public sector and private organisations – including the NHS, Wigan and Leigh College, Edge Hill University, Heinz, and Agilisys. During the event, leaders pledged to position the borough as a leader in the emerging AI industry.
Image: Milad Fakurian / Unsplash
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