Enterprise Zones

Welsh Government has unveiled 3 Enterprise zones in the South East Wales region. These are: (Maps are available to download by clicking on the  Enterprise Zone names below)

  • Cardiff Central Business District - focus on the Financial Services sector. - The zone boundary is aligned to the central business district and aims to "establish an internationally competitive destination for financial and professional services". Further location maps can be found here.
  • St Athan & Cardiff Airport – focus on the aerospace sector - The zone has been extended to include Cardiff Airport and other employment sites. The plan is to create a zone serving the aerospace sector with investment in aircraft maintenance facilities, international travel and route development, high quality business accommodation, and links to academia. Further location maps can be found here. 
  • Ebbw Vale – focus on the automotive sector - Building on its standing in "attracting innovative UK and international manufacturing companies, due to the quality of the local workforce with the relevant skills and experience". Further location maps can be found here. 
Welsh Govt. South East Wales Enterprise ZonesDetails of the Enterprise Zones are being finalised however the Welsh Government have issued the following statement:

"The new Enterprise Zones will not replicate previous Enterprise Zones, which evaluation has shown had very mixed results. We will take a bespoke approach to each location and will deploy a selective approach to the policy interventions.

In taking forward this policy on Enterprise Zones, we will not lose sight of the very real economic challenges faced by other areas of Wales. Therefore, whilst these are preferred locations, we remain open to discussions about other potential opportunities.

We will also continue to deliver on our commitments to strengthen the conditions that will enable business to create jobs and sustainable economic growth across Wales."