Minutes:
Decisions:
That
having had due regard to the Integrated Impact Assessment:
1.
Delegated authority be granted to the Chief Executive (in consultation
with the Leader and relevant Cabinet Member) to agree any variations that may
be required to the Outline Business Case (OBC) set out at Appendix 2 to the
Private, circulated report, and to approve its submission to the UK and Welsh Governments;
2.
Subject to confirmation from UK and Welsh Government that there will be
appropriate retention of Non-Domestic Rates, delegated authority be granted for
the Chief Executive (in consultation with the Leader and Relevant Cabinet
Member) to agree final amendments to the Outline Business Case following
feedback by the two governments to enable the two governments to confirm
acceptance of the OBC;
3.
Delegated authority be granted to the Chief Executive and Head of Legal
and Democratic Services to sign Letters of Intent in respect of Tax Site
Delivery Agreements on behalf of the Celtic Freeport;
4.
Delegated authority be granted to the Chief Executive to enter into a
new Memorandum of Understanding or any ancillary agreements necessary to
continue with the programme of next steps identified in the Private, circulated
report, noting that further reports will be brought back to Members on the
points referenced herein.
Reason for Decisions:
Freeport
status will act as a catalyst for significant economic growth within the
locality and the wider region linked to the emerging off-shore
wind sector and wider renewables agenda. Celtic Freeport will also support work
to decarbonise industry, housing and transport at local regional and national
levels helping to meet the net zero carbon targets. Green economic growth will
help to address structural issues of poverty and deprivation in the local and
regional economy stimulating the local supply chain and increasing the skills
and qualifications of the resident population.
Implementation of Decision:
The
decisions are for immediate implementation, following the agreement of the
Cabinet Scrutiny Chair.
Consultation:
The
Freeport bid has been developed by the two local authorities, ABP and MHPA,
working in partnership. Wider consultation has also taken place with a wide
range of public and private sector organisations including business networks
within the Freeport proposed area.