The Investment Zone will focus on three strategic locations:

• The Deeside Gateway: Including land around Deeside Industrial Park and former RAF Sealand sites.
• Wrexham Industrial Estate: One of the UK’s largest industrial areas.
• Warren Hall, Broughton: A strategic site owned by the Welsh Government.

Flexible funding of £160 million will support infrastructure improvements and local transport links. Additionally, there will be investment in skills development to prepare the local workforce for the new employment opportunities.

Revenue generated from business rates within the zone will be shared by Flintshire and Wrexham councils, providing a significant economic boost. Over 25 years, the councils can collect 50% of business rates, estimated to deliver £28 million for Wrexham and £19 million for Flintshire.

Tax Benefits for Businesses

The Investment Zone will offer a range of tax incentives to attract businesses, including:

• Five years of business rate relief for new businesses.
• Full Stamp Duty Land Tax relief on commercial land and buildings.
• Zero employer National Insurance contributions for new employees earning up to £25,000.
• Enhanced 100% Capital Allowance for plant and machinery.
• Accelerated tax relief for structures and buildings, allowing businesses to offset 10% of costs annually for 10 years.

These benefits are designed to stimulate new business activity, investment, and job creation across the region.

Collaboration to Drive Regional Development

Mark Pritchard, leader of Wrexham County Borough Council, emphasised the importance of collaboration to achieve growth.
“Flintshire and Wrexham are the most important parts of the industrialised part of North Wales. We’re very close to the border with England and compete with Liverpool, Manchester, and areas connected by the M56 and M53,” he said.

“This initiative will help us bring growth, investment, and employment to the region. The £160 million investment is expected to generate £1 billion for the local economy, which is fantastic. We’re ready to start delivering as soon as possible.”

While some concerns have been raised about the potential impact on existing businesses, Cllr Pritchard highlighted the broader benefits for the region.
“It doesn’t matter to me whether the companies are new businesses or not, as long as they bring investment and employment and it benefits Wrexham and Flintshire,” he added.

A Boost for North Wales

The Flintshire and Wrexham Investment Zone is one of only two in Wales, with the other covering Cardiff and Newport. It reflects the government’s commitment to devolving decision-making and fostering economic growth at the local level.

With plans underway and local boards being established, the initiative is expected to transform the region into a centre for advanced manufacturing, providing long-term economic benefits and job opportunities for the community.

‍