Public Sector News: Updates on Major Investment Zone Progress

Attention Net Zero News readers,

Exciting developments are underway on the Wrexham and Flintshire Investment Zone, with the aim of sparking significant growth and progress in the region.

This ambitious project is projected to attract an impressive £1 billion in private sector investment and generate 6,000 new job opportunities, representing a pivotal moment for the area.

With substantial backing from both the Welsh Government and UK Government amounting to £160 million, the Investment Zone will primarily focus on advanced manufacturing. The overarching goal of the project is to cultivate 5.5 million square feet of new capacity, addressing innovation skills and transport challenges to unlock fresh opportunities and investments for local and regional economies.

Rebecca Evans, the Welsh Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, expressed her enthusiasm for the project:

“North east Wales boasts exceptional talent and expertise. By combining this with cutting-edge innovation and government support, we believe the region has boundless potential for driving future economic growth and creating high-quality jobs.

“This is an incredibly thrilling time for the advanced manufacturing sector in north Wales, and I am heartened by the progress of the Wrexham and Flintshire Investment Zone, as well as the collaborative efforts of the Corporate Joint Committee, local authorities, both governments, and businesses in reaching this significant milestone.

“The proposed Wrexham 1M scheme from FIREM is set to establish a new tax site, providing top-notch industrial accommodation that will spur job creation and bring substantial economic value to Wrexham. It serves as another vote of confidence in our collective aspirations for the region.”

The Investment Zone recently took a major step forward with the confirmation of its industrial focus and main sites, as Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced. One of the key sites within the zone is the Wrexham Industrial Estate, which is home to prominent businesses and employers like JCB. The success of the zone hinges on FIREM’s developments within the estate, including projects like Wrexham 1M, Wrexham 152, and Bridgeway Centre.

FIREM is significantly expanding its footprint on the Wrexham Industrial Estate through its Wrexham 1M project, encompassing one million square feet of logistics space. This project alone is expected to create 1,000 jobs and serve as a catalyst for regional growth. Over the past two decades, FIREM has poured over £136 million into the estate, underscoring its dedication to the area’s advancement.

The Wrexham and Flintshire Investment Zone presents a tremendous opportunity for economic expansion and job creation. With a strong focus on advanced manufacturing and innovation, the project is poised to deliver substantial benefits for the local community and beyond.

Image credit: iStock