Issue details

Freeport development work

The government has opened a bidding opportunity for Freeports, with a closing date for applications of the 5 February 2021. The detailed prospectus is at:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/freeports-bidding-prospectus

The WECA Committee (decision taken on 31 January 2020) gave approval to £100k from 2020/21 surplus Treasury Management income being allocated to create a revenue fund to enable the Combined Authority to respond quickly to potential new grant bids and/or any other inward investment opportunities.

In light of the Freeport bidding opportunity, a proposal was developed to engage consultants to carry out research into the potential scale and scope of a Freeport application located in the West of England, and to prepare a bid. The Mayors, Leaders and Chief Executives of the 4 West of England unitary authorities were consulted on this proposal.

Decision type: Non-key

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Notice of proposed decision first published: 23/11/2020

Decision due: 20 Nov 2020 by Director of Investment & Corporate Services

Contact: Malcolm Coe, Director of Investment and Corporate Services Email: Malcolm.Coe@westofengland-ca.gov.uk.

Consultation process

The Mayors, Leaders and Chief Executives of the 4 West of England unitary authorities were consulted on this proposal.

Decisions