Despite levels of available industrial floorspace rising across the country for the tenth quarter running, the last quarter in Swindon saw a slight reduction in availability according to property consultants King Sturge.

The company's latest research shows that the rate of increase in the South West has slowed, down to 6.9 per cent from 15 per cent last year. The total of available floorspace in the region is now 1.188 million square metres, up 31.9 per cent on the previous year.

Rental values decreased by 1.2 per cent in the year to April 2003, but showed signs of recovery in the last three months to April.

Commented Alastair Andrews, an Associate with the firm: "The industrial market is showing renewed activity, although occupiers generally have more of a choice and the decision making is becoming more protracted, with landlords having to be more flexible to secure deals."