Enterprise zones would be introduced under the Welsh Conservatives, the party’s Leader in the Assembly will say today.
Speaking at Spring Forum at the Welsh Conservative Conference, Nick Bourne AM will highlight the need for a new approach to the Welsh economy.
In a direct appeal to those who may have voted Labour or Plaid in the past, Mr Bourne will say his party is the only option for a more prosperous Wales, where everyone can thrive.
Labour has managed the decline of the Welsh economy, says Mr Bourne, and it is Welsh workers and families that have suffered most.
In his speech today, Nick Bourne AM will go on to say:
“I can confirm that the next Welsh Conservative Assembly Government will take all small businesses out of business rates altogether.
“Helping small companies by allowing them to use their profits to take on staff, expand, develop new products and thrive.
“Giving our economy the boost it needs to grow.
“Because we recognise that some communities in Wales need more help than others to grow their economies, I can announce today that Welsh Conservatives will introduce a number of Enterprise Zones across Wales.
“All businesses that locate in these Zones will be entitled to full business rates relief, as well as lighter touch regulation and other incentives.
“Enterprise Zones have the potential to revitalise some of Wales’ poorest areas, by creating much-needed employment and jobs.”
Mr Bourne will also announce plans to invest heavily in school buildings across Wales, by harnessing public and private partnership agreements.
“To ensure that children have modern, fully equipped classrooms in which to learn, I am pleased to announce to conference today that Welsh Conservatives will plan for a massive injection of funds in our schools.
“By harnessing public and private partnership agreements, we will set up a dedicated School Building Fund to give pupils across Wales a world class learning environment.”
