Wylfa decision makes Holyhead free port status “even more vital” says MP

The state of flux surrounding Wylfa Newydd makes securing free port status for Holyhead “now even more critical,” the island’s MP has argued.

It was once hoped that Anglesey’s second nuclear power plant would be up and running by now, directly providing around 850 well-paid roles and other supply chain benefits for an area decimated by job losses over recent years.

But Hitachi’s decision to pull the plug on Wylfa Newydd was last week met with much disappointment by local political figures, being a cornerstone of the ‘Energy Island’ programme.

But despite claims that Wylfa remains the UK’s best site to meet future energy needs –  as well calls for effective marketing to attract similar job creation projects –  the island’s MP has this week appealed for attention to be turned towards another major local employer.

The UK Government has already promised to designate up to 10 ports as “free trade zones.”

Being included in such a zone would mean being outside of the UK for customs purposes — allowing goods to be imported, manufactured and re-exported without being subject to the usual checks, paperwork, or import taxes.

Arguing that such status for the port of Holyhead could create an “innovative hub”, boosting global trade and attracting inward investment while increasing local prosperity, Virginia Crosbie has spoken of the importance of a successful campaign.

The UK Government’s consultation closed in July with ministers suggesting that the first new Freeport could be established as early as 2021.

Anglesey Council responded favourably in backing such status for Holyhead -Britain’s second largest roll-on, roll-off port – but now faces a waiting game.

Council leader, Llinos Medi, said that the authority was “fully supportive,” noting it would attract additional investment and other economic development opportunities.
“As a deep water port, Holyhead is also ideally placed to maximise local benefits from the proposed renewable energy projects off the coast of Anglesey,” she added.

“Whilst the recent news from Hitachi was indeed a significant blow to our economy, we remain confident that the port could also contribute significantly to the future delivery of new nuclear build on the Wylfa site.

“We have a long-standing relationship with Stena Lina, and we look forward to continuing to work collaboratively to secure free port status for Holyhead as a driver for investment and job creation.”

Critics argue that the advantages of free port status are unclear, and may only result in taking jobs from other areas rather than creating new ones.

But supporters say that firms operating within designated areas in and around the port can make goods using the imports, before exporting them without having to comply with full tariffs or procedures.

 Firmly supportive, Virginia Crosbie says that in light of Hitachi’s announcement, achieving such status has become “even more critical to the island’s prosperity.”

“I’m delighted that the council supports a joined-up approach,” she added.
“It’s clear from their submission that they value collaboration with local stakeholders, including myself, in order to make progress in the best interests of the island.
“I look forward to working with the council as they take forward their proposals for Freeport status for Holyhead.
“I’m in a unique position to engage with UK Government Ministers on behalf of my constituents and the council, and I am delighted to do so.”
Ian Hampton, a director at port operator Stena Line UK, also welcomed the prospect of free ports.
He added: “Holyhead is our largest port in terms of area, the UK’s second largest RoRo port and a major connection between Wales and the Republic of Ireland.
“The port also plays an important role in the local community on Anglesey and we believe free port status would support that community.”

By Gareth Williams – Local Democracy Reporter