Decision details

The report of the Head of Regulation and Economic Development which sought the Executive’s agreement to the signing of a proposed Memorandum of Understanding  between the relevant parties in relation to the Anglesey Freeport was presented for consideration.

The report was presented by the Chief Economic Development Officer who recapped on the background confirming that the draft Anglesey Full Business Case (FBC) was submitted to the Westminster and Welsh Governments on 17 January 2025 and following written feedback on 11 March, the draft FBC was resubmitted with the expectation that it would be signed off in early April 2025. Following FBC approval, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) must be agreed and signed. The purpose of the MoU is to set out the terms, principles and practices that govern the working relationship between the relevant parties  -UK Government, Welsh Government , the Isle of Anglesey County Council and Porthladd Rhydd Ynys Môn, and outstanding requirements. Signing the MoU is the final step in the Freeport becoming operational. It formalises the key commitments made by the Freeport in the FBC and outlines what support it can expect from the UK and Welsh Governments. The Council has reviewed and commented on the draft MoU and is awaiting the Welsh Government’s final version. Once the MoU has been reviewed by the Council’s Chief Executive, the Director of Function (Resources)/Section 151 Officer and Director of Function (Council Business)/Monitoring Officer, the Council will proceed with signing it. Subject to the Executive’s approval it will be signed before the end of May to allow the Freeport to be fully operational by 1 June 2025.

Addressing the Executive’s enquiries about progress and timescales, the Chief Economic Development Officer updated members on governance developments including the status of member and landowner agreements. An inaugural shadow board meeting was held in January 2025 with key stakeholders to begin the transition into Freeport delivery. The Chief Executive also provided the latest updates on the Freeport’s designated Tax Sites and related matters.

It was resolved –

·      To approve the signing of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the UK Government, Welsh Government, the Isle of Anglesey County Council as the Accountable Body, and the Porthladd Rhydd Ynys Môn as the Governing Body.

·      That in respect of previous Executive decisions made on 19 March 2024 “Anglesey Freeport Governance Arrangements” and on 23 May 2024 “Agree on the Arrangements for the Establishment of the Porthladd Rhydd Ynys Môn,” the delegated authority is amended to the Deputy Chief Executive rather than the Chief Executive.