The Celtic Freeport has reached a major delivery milestone with approval of £18.4 million in seed capital funding for four projects across Neath Port Talbot and Pembrokeshire.

The investment will support new infrastructure, unlock development and help attract further private-sector investment across the Freeport.

The approved projects are:

• Port of Milford Haven, Criterion Quay, Pembroke Port: £7.2 million towards the first phase of a development that will restore marine infrastructure, provide additional berthing and create 1.7 hectares of laydown space for floating offshore wind.

• Ledwood Quayside Upgrade, Pembroke Dock: £2 million to improve marine access and support floating offshore wind component fabrication and handling.

Infographic showing four port views £18.4m seed capital investment
(Marine Energy Wales)

• Associated British Ports, Talbot Wharf, Port Talbot: £5 million towards a scheme to unlock 9.1 hectares for the floating offshore wind supply chain.

• Neath Port Talbot Council Harbourside, Port Talbot: £4.2 million towards an £8.4 million scheme to deliver six business units at the Waterside Innovation Park.

The Secretary of State for Wales, Stephen Kinnock said: “This is a significant moment for the development of the Celtic Freeport which will cement south west Wales as a hub of the industries of the future.”

The seed capital funding is being provided by the UK Government through the Freeport Programme in Wales.

The funding awards remain subject to the agreement of grant conditions and completion of the necessary funding arrangements, including monitoring, assurance and clawback provisions.

Chris Martin, Chair of the Celtic Freeport, said:

“Approval of this seed capital funding marks a major step forward for Celtic Freeport. These four projects will deliver the infrastructure needed to unlock investment, support high-quality jobs and accelerate economic growth across south west Wales.

“We are now moving from planning into delivery, working with our partners to turn the Freeport’s ambitions into tangible benefits for businesses and communities.”