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Alun Cairns has hosted a reception for Swansea Bay City Deal team, local authority leaders and MPs.

Alun Cairns yesterday hosted a reception for Swansea Bay City Deal team, local authority leaders and MPs. More than 30 people attended the event, held at Gwydyr House in Whitehall.

Alun Cairns, Secretary of State for Wales, said:

“City Deals have proven a great success across the UK in allowing local people, councils, businesses and other partners to set out proposals for triggering investment and creating jobs. We are under way with a deal in Cardiff, we are working on a North Wales growth deal and it is absolutely right Swansea should set out its own vision.

“The deal for Swansea is an exciting and innovative one. Today’s reception is a good opportunity to mark how far we have come and to push on with more detailed talks.

“I look forward to receiving further detailed proposals and to putting the case for a renewed Swansea to the Treasury.”

Sir Terry Matthews Chair of Swansea Bay City Region Board said “I am pleased that a great deal of progress has been made, however much more work and industry and government support will be required to complete our programmes. The importance of securing the City Deal has been underscored by both the continuing uncertainty around the steel industry and following the vote to leave the European Union. We are convinced that the timing is right for our business plans and that the outcome will be substantial economic upside for the region.”

“Key business partners across the region are now engaged in finalising the Internet Coast proposals and both the UK and Welsh Governments are fully engaged in the details”

“I look forward to the events this week. Clearly important milestones on the road to success for the region.”