Issue - meetings

(a)       That the Committee supports the ‘Growth Vision for the Economy of North Wales’ as the basis for negotiation with the UK and Welsh Governments over a Growth Bid for the region; and

(b)       That the Committee supports and endorses the prospectus for Rail Improvement ‘Growth Track 360’.

Councillor Derek Butler introduced a report accompanied by ‘A Growth Vision for the Economy of North Wales’ which set out regional ambitions on infrastructure development, skills and employment, and business growth.  Also received was the ‘Growth Track 360’ prospectus on rail improvement across North Wales and the Mersey Dee area, which had been developed with various key partners.  The documents, which had been shared with the UK Government and Welsh Government (WG), were being submitted to all six North Wales authorities for adoption and a further regional document on skills had been produced.  In stressing the importance of Flintshire’s position, Councillor Butler said that the cross-border growth bid was unique in the UK.

The Service Manager (Enterprise and Regeneration) gave an overview of the report which followed an earlier report on the Regional Economy.  He described it as a realistic vision with carefully focussed aims, which had been the subject of positive discussions with Ministers.  The vision was ambitious in seeking improved sustainable economic growth and employment opportunities for North Wales, with particular focus on the advanced manufacturing, energy and digital sectors.  Devolved powers were being sought to deliver local priorities and the vision supported the developing strategy for the Northern Powerhouse and would link with the growth bid by Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

Councillor Ian Dunbar referred to the cost implications of the rail prospectus but supported the vision for growth and welcomed the benefits to local industry.  He asked about progress of discussions with new WG Ministers and potential changes to future plans.  The Chief Officer (Community & Enterprise) said that if the funding could be secured, this would be invested on early priorities to make improvements on the Wrexham to Bidston route, provide faster trains along the coast, upgrade stations and improve the overall customer experience.  Whilst WG had given a commitment to support the growth vision, negotiations with the WG and UK Government would continue on priorities, investment and collaboration to deliver schemes.  There would continue to be capital investment in major infrastructure programmes, for example the commitment by WG to ease congestion along the Deeside corridor through consultation on the Red and Blue routes.

Councillor Butler referred to the positive relationship and shared aspirations built up between the Council and the Mersey Dee Alliance over the years.

Whilst Councillor Rosetta Dolphin welcomed the report and understood the focus on the Deeside area, she raised concerns that other areas of the county could miss out on investment.  She also suggested that a workshop on the work carried out within the Economy & Enterprise portfolio could be of use to the Committee.

Councillor Hilary Isherwood welcomed the plans and acknowledged the traffic problems along the Deeside strip, but shared concerns about the benefits to other areas of the county, particularly in more rural areas.  She spoke about the WG wanting more housing developments but stated the importance of having a proper infrastructure in place first, supported by appropriate bus services giving young people access to employment.  ...  view the full minutes text for item 19