Issue - meetings

Report of the Strategic Director of Place

Presented by the Planning and Infrastructure Portfolio Holder

Councillor R Ashman presented the report and additional papers, which explained the details of what constitutes a Freeport, and set out the proposal for a Freeport in the East Midlands across four key sites. Of these, East Midlands Airport and East Midlands Gateway were within the boundaries of North West Leicestershire. Therefore, the Council’s approval via a letter signed by the Leader of the Council was required as part of the proposition. 

The report set out detailed financial implications regarding retained business rates growth and planning implications for the Council as the local planning authority, it was also explained that a governance arrangement would be required in the event of approval, which was expected to align with the Development Corporation. Any infrastructure requirements to support the bid would fall under Leicestershire County Council as Highway Authority, working with the Council alongside Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire County Council Highway Authorities, Highways England, and Network Rail

It was noted that there was significant overlap between the partners and boundaries of the Freeport Proposition and those of the the East Midlands Development Corporation, although the East Midlands Intermodal Park site in South Derbyshire was not presently included in the Development Corporation programme. 

Members spoke in support of the proposals highlighting the need to support local businesses and growth.

It was moved by Councillor R Ashman, seconded by Councillor R Blunt and

RESOLVED THAT

1. Cabinet endorses, in principle, the submission of a Freeport proposition paper to government for the East Midlands to include the East Midlands Airport and East Midlands Gateway sites; and

2. Approves the Leader providing a commitment of the Council’s support and agreement to the proposed Freeport for those areas for which North West Leicestershire District Council has statutory responsibility including planning and business rates to support the delivery of the proposal.

Reason for decision: The Freeport proposition for East Midlands Airport has the potential to attract investment and spur local and regional economic growth as well as enhancing international trade. This means new jobs and associated infrastructure to benefit our local residents and communities.