Issue - meetings

To consider the report of the Service Manager Business and Regeneration.

Consideration was given to report of the Service Manager Business & Regeneration.

The Service Manager Business & Regeneration presented the report which provided Members with an update on the Hybrid Units and the Hwb Bocs developments at the Works Site, Ebbw Vale.  The Officer went through the report and highlighted points contained therein.

A Member asked when the final accounts for the project could be expected.

The Service Manager Business & Regeneration confirmed that the accounts were currently being finalised, and whilst there was a slight overspend due to the Covid pandemic, it was not as substantial as anticipated.

A Member asked regarding the criteria for occupying the Hwb units, and whether they would be available to existing businesses. 

In response the Officer reported that they would be available for existing business, however, the Council was keen to promote start-up businesses.  He said they provided a flexible space for any businesses, but would appeal to tech based businesses.  Officers were working closely with interested companies to see if the units were suitable or whether there were more appropriate premises in the Borough.

A Member asked for an update on the number of units that had been let, and the Officer confirmed that of the 3 hybrid unit buildings, 2 had been let and Officers were working closely with another company interested in the third building.  In relation to the Hwb Bocs units, the internal fit was nearing completion and he was confident that with the level of interest they would also be let.

Another Member said this was a very worthwhile project, and asked that an update on future lettings be provided.

A brief discussion ensued when a Member asked whether signs promoting the units could be erected along the Heads of the Valleys road.

The Officer said marketing was being considered and signage along the Heads of the Valleys was an opportunity that could be explored.  He said the investment in the Hov would hopefully have a positive impact in attracting investors to Blaenau Gwent.

The Head of Regeneration reported that the Council received a large number of enquiries for units of different size, and unfortunately we were unable to accede to some of those requests.  More industrial space was needed in the Borough, and the Officer confirmed that this was being

pursued with Welsh Government and Cardiff City Region.

A discussion ensued when the Chair suggested that arrangements be made for Members to visit the units prior to them being occupied.

The Committee AGREED to recommend that the report be accepted and the information contained therein be noted (Option 1).