New aviation facility will ‘bring billions to economy’

A NEW advanced research and manufacturing centre in Flintshire will boost the Welsh economy by a massive £4bn, Welsh Government Economy Secretary Ken Skates has claimed.

Mr Skates has approved £20m funding to complete phase one of the development in Deeside, which will help secure thousands of aviation jobs.

Airbus has already been confirmed as the new anchor tenant for the centre which will use it to design new wing technology.

According to Mr Skates, the new centre will have a strong focus on sectors including aerospace, automotive, nuclear and food. It will be spread over two sites – a main at Airbus in Broughton and a business development and advice facility on the Deeside Industrial Estate.

The news came at a meeting of Wrexham Business Professionals at the town’s Ramada Hotel, where Mr Skates addressed an audience of 170 business leaders.

The organisation is made up of successful businesses and firms of highly skilled solicitors, accountants and other professionals, working together to raise the profile of enterprise and expertise that exists in the region and beyond.

Mr Skates told the meeting that independent analysis showed the mulit-million-pound investment would help bring billions into the local economy.

The new institute is expected to drive the local industry base and act as a catalyst for growth and jobs across the supply chain in Deeside and north Wales.

The first phase of the institute is expected to be up and running by 2020.

Clwyd South AM Mr Skates said: “We are investing £20m, but the return literally is eyewatering. Our £20m will, according to independent analysis, deliver £4bn for our economy.

“It’s vital we continue to deliver on our pledge to establish the Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility in Deeside, targeting commercialisation, training and productivity.

“Welsh industry needs to remain competitive by adapting to modern techniques and understanding potential opportunities of the fourth industrial revolution which the proposed research institute will support.”

Mr Skates said its location and proximity to the Northern Powerhouse had been a key factor in the Welsh Government’s decision to invest in the project.