Freeports and investment zones across Wales can complement each other and foster growth for the entire nation, according to speakers at the UK Real Estate Investment & Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds. The event, which has attracted thousands of delegates, featured a Wales pavilion debate on place-based impact and development, alongside the launch of the South West Wales investment prospectus.
Panel Discussion on Unlocking Wales' Competitive Edge
A panel discussion titled "Unlock Wales’ Competitive Edge" explored how freeports and investment zones, which offer tax advantages to investors, can promote Wales as an "investable nation." Host Mark John led the session, asking how these zones could work together.
Christian Branch, head of service at the Regulation and Economic Development Service at the Isle of Anglesey Council, explained that Anglesey Freeport is a public-private partnership between the council and Stena Line, owner of the Port of Holyhead. He emphasized that the zones are not competing but complementing each other, stating, "From a national perspective it’s very much about complementing each other and I think there’s very much scope for all areas to improve." He added that if one freeport succeeds, "then all Wales is successful," sparking growth beyond port boundaries.
Branch highlighted challenges on Anglesey, such as an aging population, youth emigration, and job losses, but also opportunities including the Port of Holyhead, Rolls-Royce’s Small Modular Reactor project at Wylfa, and an AI Growth Zone.
Celtic Freeport and Supply Chain Stickiness
Cathy Hall, interim chief executive of Celtic Freeport—covering Milford Haven and Port Talbot—said she expects freeports to learn from each other. Her freeport focuses on the green economy, supporting offshore wind and hydrogen. She noted, "It’s not just the two ports but the whole industrial ecosystem." Hall emphasized developing "stickiness" in the supply chain to build a long-term skills base, rather than relying on temporary contractors. She cited the Humber ports, particularly Grimsby, which pivoted from fishing to offshore wind, creating local skills and opportunities.
Hall added that freeport and investment zone leaders can act as "convening powers" for inward investors, helping them navigate local networks.
Flintshire and Wrexham Investment Zone
Iain Taylor, programme manager at Ambition North Wales, described the Flintshire and Wrexham Investment Zone, focusing on advanced manufacturing and SME support. Key sites include Gateway Deeside, Wrexham industrial estate, and Warren Hall. Taylor said the goal is to create thousands of jobs and support smaller firms alongside major companies like Airbus. He stressed that tax reliefs are designed for long-term investment, stating, "The message across the panel is we’re here for the next generation."
Cardiff and Newport Investment Zone
Cllr Deborah Davies, deputy leader of Newport City Council, outlined the Cardiff and Newport Investment Zone, covering three strategic sites including the proposed Cardiff Parkway station and integrated business park at St Mellons. Key industries include advanced manufacturing and semiconductor R&D, with companies like IQE. Davies described this as "investment that matters to all Wales," noting strong transport links and space for semiconductor clusters. The zone also includes Imperial Park in Newport, home to tech firms like KLA and Vishay, and land from Central Quay to Cardiff Bay and Atlantic Wharf.
South West Wales Investment Prospectus
The South West Wales Corporate Joint Committee (SWWCJC) launched its first regional investment prospectus at UKREiiF, covering Carmarthenshire, Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire, and Swansea. The prospectus identifies opportunities in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, innovation, tourism, and infrastructure to accelerate growth and support net-zero transition.
Councillor Rob Stewart, chair of SWWCJC and leader of Swansea Council, said, "This prospectus is a statement of confidence in South West Wales. We are presenting a single, coherent regional offer to investors—one that reflects our shared priorities, our world-class natural assets, and our commitment to sustainable, inclusive growth." He added that UKREiiF is the perfect platform to showcase the region's opportunities.
