Two New Freeports to Supercharge Welsh Economy
The UK and Welsh governments have given the green light to two new Freeports in Wales – one in Anglesey and the other covering Port Talbot and Milford Haven. This bold move aims to turbocharge growth, create thousands of skilled jobs, and level up local communities.
£5 Billion Investment & 20,000 Jobs on the Horizon
- The Anglesey Freeport and Celtic Freeport in Port Talbot and Milford Haven have secured their spots, backed by up to £26 million each from the UK Government.
- These sites are expected to unlock nearly £5 billion in private and public investments.
- More than 20,000 high-skilled jobs are set to be created, breathing new life into Wales’ economy.
Freeports offer tax breaks, customs incentives, and a range of economic benefits that make them hotspots for investment and innovation, particularly in disadvantaged areas.
Leaders Rally Behind Wales’ Freeport Future
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak: “Wales is a thriving part of the UK, and these Freeports will see business and opportunities in Anglesey, Port Talbot, and Milford Haven booming. This shows our commitment to equality of opportunity and growing the economy with high-skilled jobs.”
First Minister Mark Drakeford: “The Celtic Freeport and Anglesey Freeport will boost Wales’ drive for a stronger, fairer, and greener economy. This joint effort sets the tone for future UK-Welsh government collaboration.”
Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove: “Wales’ untapped potential means these Freeports will be transformational, spreading opportunity and boosting economic growth across the nation.”
Green Energy and Innovation at the Heart
- Anglesey Freeport plans to attract £1.4 billion in green energy investment, create 3,500 jobs, and focus on marine energy and low carbon projects. Key upgrades include Holyhead port redevelopment and restoring rail connections.
- Celtic Freeport aims to bring in £3.5 billion in the hydrogen sector and generate 16,000 jobs. It will champion low-carbon tech such as offshore wind, hydrogen, carbon capture, and biofuels with enhanced infrastructure.
Both freeports will play pivotal roles in Wales’ industrial future while supporting the UK’s net zero carbon targets.
Welsh Economy Set for a Major Boost
Wales’ Economy Minister Vaughan Gething: “Congratulations to both teams for their exceptional bids. These Freeports will unlock tens of thousands of new jobs and place ports at the heart of Wales’ future economy, accelerating our journey to net zero by 2050.”
Secretary of State for Wales David TC Davies: “This is fantastic news for Wales. The UK Government’s pledge to bring Freeports here has been delivered, promising to boost investment, create jobs, and level up communities.”
The successful bids were chosen after a rigorous joint process focused on regeneration, global trade hubs, and innovation – especially green energy. Governments will work closely to ensure these Freeports hit the ground running.
This announcement builds on existing Freeport successes across the UK, including eight in England and plans for green Freeports in Scotland.
While one other Welsh bid missed out, officials will explore ways to deliver jobs and growth in those areas too.
