Infrastructure Developments on Ynys Môn

Part of 1. Questions to the Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport – in the Senedd at 1:39 pm on 10 January 2018.

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Photo of Ken Skates Ken Skates Labour 1:39, 10 January 2018

I think it's fair to say that Anglesey is home to some of the most exciting infrastructure projects anywhere in the UK in the coming years, and some of the biggest as well. It's essential that all partners—UK Government, Welsh Government, local authorities across north Wales—work together to maximise the opportunities for growth in terms of jobs, work experience and training for people who live on the island and in the immediate vicinity as well. For that reason, I'm keen to continue with constructive discussions with the UK Government and with local authorities. Indeed, I met with the leader of Anglesey council and the chief executive just before Christmas to discuss progress on Wylfa Newydd and the growth deal bid. It's my intention to take forward further discussions as part of the growth deal negotiations, and I think we stand on the cusp of producing a set of proposals with an overarching vision that could lead to significant growth in employment and wealth across north Wales, but that's not going to stop us making the right investments in the meantime. In particular, when it comes to roads, when it comes to preparing employment sites on Anglesey, I think it's essential that the money keeps flowing, and funding has already been made available to support a strategic employment site at Llangefni, and also another one at Penrhos in Holyhead. But, of course, that money comes from Europe—yet another reminder of how important European funding has been to many parts of Wales.