Agenda item

That the report be noted. 

The Head of Regeneration introduced a report to advise Members of progress regarding the work of Mersey Dee Alliance (MDA). 

He detailed the background to the report and explained that the MDA was one of the key strategic partnerships for the Council and involved neighbouring Councils, Mersey Travel, Glyndwr University, Taith and University of Chester.  The MDA reflected the fact that the area was the only part of the United Kingdom divided by a national boundary but the boundary was not recognised by local businesses or local communities in day to day life.  He detailed the considerations in the report and indicated that key MDA work areas included:-

·                    The Dee Region – bid for City Region status

The bid had not been accepted but the Minister had accepted the need for greater formation of the cross border working arrangements in the MDA and discussions were ongoing.

·                    M56/A55/Innovation Corridor

A study of the potential for a North Wales/North West England ‘corridor’ based on the better integration of service and advanced manufacturing assets had been prepared.  A range of high tech/R&D facilities were in place and the sub-region also had substantial assets in advanced manufacturing in the aerospace, automotive, electronics, creative and fibre optic sectors. 

·                    MDA Think Tank

Key regional employers who employed from both sides of the border were being approached with a view to forming an economic ‘think tank’ to advise on issues that affect the area’s competitiveness. 

            The Chairman felt that the report did not provide enough detail on priorities and deadlines of the MDA and suggested that this information be included for future reports. 

            Councillor Paul Shotton expressed his disappointment at the Dee Region not being awarded City Region Status and spoke of a presentation provided by Glyndwr University at a recent meeting of Community Profile and Partnerships Overview & Scrutiny Committee.  He also referred to local and regional employers and commented on the importance of having employees with the appropriate skills. 

            The Head of Regeneration explained that the MDA was a non-statutory body and that the skills issue was critical along with labour market planning.  In response to a query from Councillor Cindy Hinds about the Deeside Enterprise Zone, he said that it had started on 1 April 2012 and that there had been 400 net jobs in the first year which he welcomed.  He felt that the progress would be more significant in this financial year but added that more work needed to be undertaken. 

            Councillor Derek Butler also expressed his disappointment at not gaining City Region status and in referring to the unique area said that the sustainability and ensuring employers stayed in the area was important. 

            Councillor Nancy Matthews queried whether discussions were still ongoing with the MDA and Network Rail about a travel link to Liverpool airport.  The Director of Environment spoke of a report on the issue of transport in the area from the Integrated Transport Task Force which was to be submitted to the Minister later this week for consideration.     

RESOLVED:

That the report be noted.