Living And Working In Wrexham

Wrexham is situated in north Wales and is Wales’ seventh city. It is the administrative centre of the Wrexham County Borough which was awarded city status in 2022 and has a growing population. Nestled between the Welsh mountains and the English border, it is approximately 190 miles from London yet only around 25 miles from Liverpool and 43 miles from Manchester and therefore has excellent links to both the north and the south.

Wrexham has a long and fascinating history with evidence of settlements dating as far back as the prehistoric times. However, it was during the Industrial Revolution that Wrexham’s industrial growth really grew and became an important centre for industry, with coal mining, iron and steel production as well as brewing becoming major industries. It was once the most important iron manufacturer in the world for many years. Alongside the expansion of industry, the population increased accordingly and many of the wonderful and historic buildings that were constructed during these times still stand today.

Wrexham’s economy continues to see significant development, driven by a mix of local initiatives and external investment. One of the major projects includes the Transforming Towns Funding which is revitalising the city centre with improvements to public spaces, markets and key cultural landmarks. Additionally, Wrexham’s rise to city status has attracted further attention to its potential as a hub for both investment and growth. Local government is actively encouraging businesses to invest while large scale initiatives like the Football Museum of Wales are aimed at increasing foot traffic and establishing the city as a key destination in the area.

Several sectors continue to be strong contributors to Wrexham’s economy. Wrexham Industrial Estate is one of the largest in Europe and is home to a variety of advanced manufacturing companies. The estate hosts businesses in sectors such as automotive, aerospace and engineering with a focus on innovation and high tech production.

Wrexham has a notable presence in the pharmaceutical and life sciences industries with major companies operating in the area. This sector has benefitted from continued investment and the city’s strategic location for distribution across the UK and Europe. This sector is bolstered by the presence of Glyndwr University which supports research and development. The university also provides a pipeline of skilled workers for these industries, strengthening the collaboration between education and business.

The food and drink sector also plays a key role, with Wrexham being home to Wrexham Lager Brewery, the first lager brewery in the UK, and a growing number of artisan food producers.

The education sector led by Glyndwr University and local schools, supports job creation and skill development while the healthcare sector, particularly with facilities like Wrexham Maelor Hospital remains essential for the region’s well being.

Wrexham is a retail hub for North Wales, with continuous developments in the city centre, including refurbishments to key shopping areas. The retail sector remains crucial for employment and the local economy.

There is lots to see and do in Wrexham. Wrexham football team are the third oldest team in the world with the oldest ground and even have their own TV series, having gained some very loyal fans! Ty Pawb which hosts businesses, a theatre, a food court and galleries, was selected as one of five finalists for the Art Fund Museum of the Year in 2022!. The Independent Quarter has a great selection of shops and galleries to explore while other attractions not to be missed include St Giles Church - the largest medieval church in Wales, Wrexham County Borough Museum, the Science Discovery Centre, Chirk Castle, Erddig Hall and All Saints Church. There are still a number of stately Victorian viaducts across the city, some of which are still in use but are now listed by UNESCO as protected World Heritage Sites. A short walk from the city will lead you to the 1200 acres of National Trust land which holds a host of stunning attractions. There are several unique parks offering a blend of peaceful surroundings such as Alyn Waters Country Park with its bubbling stream, stroll around the lakes at Moss Valley Country Park where you will be reminded of the area's mining history or visit Nant Mill Country Park alongside the River Clywedog.

Wrexham is an affordable place to live compared with many other parts of the UK and is a popular and welcoming city with a strong sense of community spirit. This up and coming new city offers a fantastic quality of life with a wide range of amenities and has the added advantage of being surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes.

The next event being hosted by the UK Careers Fair will be held on October 31st between 10am - 2pm. The venue is Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Wrexham, LL13 7YH. This luxurious four star hotel is located near to the city centre and just a short drive from North Wales’ many hidden treasures and heritage sites.