Tag Archives: CCR

Business Investment, Investment, Newport

KLA’s manufacturing and R&D centre in Newport receives £6.25m in Cardiff Capital Region investment

Jo Stevens, Secretary of State for Wales, visited KLA Corporation’s newly opened manufacturing and R&D facility at Imperial Park, in Newport, part of the compound semiconductor cluster there, which is expected to boost skilled employment in the region.

Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) supported US semiconductor equipment manufacturer KLA with a £6.25m grant to facilitate the expansion of the highly innovative new manufacturing and R&D facility in Imperial Park. An additional £750,000 was granted from Newport City Council for the same project, and the total sum of £7m will be committed over the next four years. The Secretary of State was accompanied by Cllr Dimitri Batrouni, the Leader of Newport City Council and senior managers from CCR.

The new 237,000 sq.ft facility includes manufacturing space, a fabrication plant, as well as office space for 750 employees, and is located within the compound semiconductor cluster in Newport, next to CCR’s CSC Foundry. The grant supports the expansion of the existing KLA business footprint in the region, bringing new manufacturing innovations and adding significant value to the Semiconductor and Compound Semiconductor Industries’ contribution to the Welsh economy.

 

Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:

“I’m delighted to see this investment into the world-leading compound semiconductor cluster in Newport. KLA’s new facilities mean they can expand and employ more highly skilled people.

“The UK Government’s funding for Cardiff Capital Region and the local Investment Zone is helping drive economic growth in a sector where Wales leads the way, delivering the plan that we have set out in our Industrial Strategy.”

 

Cllr Dimitri Batrouni, Leader of Newport City Council, commented:

“This investment from CCR represents a stake in the new industries of the future, the new advanced manufacturing that is being built here in Newport on a massive scale. To drive a semiconductor plant such as KLA’s, we need people, and we need skills and other companies in the local supply chain to make it all happen. 80% of these needs are coming from within the region and this is a great opportunity for the economy of South East Wales.”

Commenting on the investment, Andrew Evans, Senior Director, Commercial Legal, at KLA said:

“The investments from both KLA and CCR into this new site reinforce the importance of Wales to KLA’s global operations. The technologies created and developed in Wales are critical not only to our customers in Europe but globally too. The technology and infrastructure, combined with the skilled talent pool here continue to make this operation in Newport very competitive on the global semiconductor landscape.”

Connectivity, Transport, Travel

Final call to shape the future of transport in South East Wales – consultation closes May 19

Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) is issuing a final call for residents, businesses and stakeholders to help shape the future of transport in South East Wales, as the public consultation on its draft Regional Transport Plan (RTP) enters its final weeks. The consultation will close on May 19, 2025.

Since launching in March, the consultation has invited people across the Region – from Monmouthshire to Bridgend, the Valleys to the coast – to share their views on the draft Plan, which sets out a long-term vision for a more efficient, sustainable and inclusive transport network.

The draft RTP sets out Cardiff Capital Region’s goal to build a Competitive, Connected, and Resilient Region, underpinned by an affordable, low-carbon transport system that improves quality of life, reduces emissions and supports economic opportunity.

The Plan includes objectives for better access to jobs and services, cleaner air, improved safety, stronger links between communities, and better transport connections between South East Wales, the rest of the UK and beyond.

Residents, community groups, businesses and organisations are encouraged to review the draft Plan and have their say by visiting: https://regionaltransportplanccr.wales/.  Responses from the public will help shape the future of transport in the Region.

Cllr Andrew Morgan OBE, Chair of CCR’s Regional Transport Sub-Committee, and Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, said:

“We’ve made strong progress through Metro investment and low-emission initiatives, but now we need people across South East Wales to tell us what matters most to them – and time is running out. This is your chance to influence what comes next.”

Business, Business Investment, Investment, Investment News

Cardiff Capital Region loan enables the development of battery storage in Newport

CCR’s funding of this project enables two further projects to take place on site with private funding.

 

The Strategic Premises Fund of Cardiff Capital Region (CCR), the regional body made up of the ten Local Authorities in South East Wales, has loaned £8.5m to Simec Atlantis Energy Limited (SAE) to help transform a former power station in Newport, South East Wales into one of the UK’s largest Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

The loan will accelerate the delivery of the Uskmouth facility by funding early pre-construction and construction associated with the Afon Wysg 1 (AW1) project and alongside an estimated additional sum of £56.5m of private sector finance will fund upfront works, battery equipment, construction, and grid connection.

Over the lifetime of the whole project, the investments are set to create over 500 jobs, including 37 apprentices in both construction and long-term employment using a Welsh-based contractor, as well as Welsh sub-contractors and supply chain partners, enabling a nationally significant infrastructure project which aligns with CCR’s Regional and Economic Industrial Plan to grow the green economy.

Upon completion, the Uskmouth site will be capable of supporting circa 3.5GWh of Battery Storage projects, which will allow energy to be stored when it is cheapest, and discharged when demand is high, helping reduce energy costs and a reliance on imported electricity. The plant will also stabilise the local grid, supporting National Grid in managing demand and supply efficiently.

All investments from CCR’s Strategic Premises Fund, which is managed by CBRE Lending, are taken through a rigorous two-stage approval process. It is a repayable investment with interest, structured to protect public money while enabling a transformative infrastructure project. The loan, upon repayment, will be reinvested back into the region. Previous commercial endeavours supported by CCR’s Fund include Pulse Plastics in Ebbw Vale, Great Point Seren Studios in Cardiff, Tŷ Hotels in Newport and John Street in Cardiff.

 

Cllr Andrew Morgan OBE, CCR’s Portfolio Lead for Strategic Premises Fund commented:

“CCR’s Strategic Premises Fund is contributing vital funds on a commercial loan basis alongside private sector investment to help make this site viable for energy storage. Repurposing the former power station at Uskmouth delivers multiple benefits for local communities, businesses, the environment and wider society. This project demonstrates what can happen when the public and private sectors combine to support our energy needs for the future.”

Cllr Dimitri Batrouni, Leader Newport Council said:

“This project represents a tremendous economic and sustainable energy opportunity for Newport. I’m excited about what this can deliver for people in Newport and across the region, with employment opportunities, skills development for young people through apprenticeships, and delivering cutting-edge infrastructure projects that align with our regional ambition to grow the green economy.”

Michael Coutts, Associate Director, CBRE Lending added:

“This loan demonstrates the breadth and capability of the Fund to support a wide range of sectors across the region, reflecting CCR’s priorities spanning employment, regeneration and environmental objectives.  We look forward to building on this success, supporting further projects across South East Wales.”

Business, Business Investment, Construction, Sustainability, Wales

Cardiff Capital Region Loans £15m to new Office Space in John Street, Cardiff

CCR assists funding of new build in central Cardiff with Lloyds Banking Group as pre-let tenant for over 3,000 employees in 2025.

 

Cardiff Capital Region’s (CCR) Strategic Premises Fund has loaned £15m into a new 114,000 sq.ft office block in Callaghan Square in the centre of Cardiff financed by CCR via a debt-loan to developers JR Smart. Lloyds Banking Group is set to take a 10-year lease on the entire building, with 3,000 employees due to move into this new office accommodation.

John Street is a prime office building, designed to the highest standards and targeting a BREEAM sustainable building certification rating of ‘Excellent’ that commits to minimising its environmental impact and incorporating innovative solutions to ensure long-term sustainability. The 10-storey building will benefit from all electric services, an EPC ‘A’ rating, WELL ‘Silver’ accreditation and will incorporate a rooftop terrace with views across the city and Cardiff Bay. The Landlord’s works are on schedule for completion in December this year with Lloyds occupying the premises from summer 2026.

For both tenant and employees, the location will take full advantage of future infrastructure projects being delivered in the region, including the new Crossrail development that will feed into Callaghan Square itself, as well as the proposed Cardiff Central enhancement in which CCR is one the main backers and financiers. Further afield, the just-approved Cardiff Parkway transport hub will complement both transport links and assist business growth in the region.

All investments from CCR’s Strategic Premises Fund, which is managed by CBRE Lending, are taken through a rigorous two-stage approval process. Previous commercial endeavours supported by CCR’s Fund include Pulse Plastics in Ebbw Vale, Great Point Seren Studios in Cardiff and Tŷ Hotels in Newport. The loan, upon repayment, will be reinvested back into the region.

 

 

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said: “This investment in new office space at John Street in Cardiff will support key priorities such as business growth and regeneration for the regional economy.

“We continue to actively explore opportunities to work collaboratively with CCR in order to deliver significant economic benefits.”

Wales Office Minister Dame Nia Griffith said: “I am very pleased to see the UK Government’s investment in the Cardiff Capital Region. This will help to deliver on our economic growth mission, a vital part of our Plan for Change.

“This development, along with improved transport links, will provide fantastic facilities to encourage businesses to base themselves in Cardiff and to expand, helping to create new jobs and put more money in people’s pockets.”

Cllr Andrew Morgan OBE, Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council and CCR’s Portfolio Lead for the Strategic Premises Fund, said:

“This CCR investment plays its part in further developing exciting and environmentally sustainable office space that national brands wish to take up, adding to the long-term inclusive growth in our region. CCR’s vision to connect communities, services and businesses continues to develop and our interventions in office space and transport links have a key transformative role.”

George Richards, Senior Director, CBRE Lending, who manage the Strategic Premises Fund on behalf of CCR said:

“This is a pivotal investment in the region, which aligns with the fund’s core objectives of job creation, private sector leverage and the delivery of new employment space. The outstanding ESG credentials of the building meet CCR’s sustainability objectives, and their continued journey towards Net Zero.”

Business, Environment, Renewable Energy News, Wales News

Renewable energy scheme to power more households across South East Wales

Households across the region are set to benefit from the Solar Together group-buying scheme, providing access to reliable solar power and battery storage installers at competitive prices.

Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) and the Welsh Government Energy Service are supporting Cardiff Council to bring Solar Together to South East Wales – the first region in Wales to take part in the UK-wide scheme.

Following a rigorous qualification process, Solar Together employs a network of reliable solar installers to provide solar panels, battery storage, or EV home charging points to homes at a competitive rate through a community-led group-buying scheme.

Homeowners will be supported throughout each stage, enabling residents to make informed decisions on switching to renewable energy. The scheme has the potential to create long-term energy resilience amid growing energy security challenges and will help South East Wales transition to a greener, more sustainable future.

Households located in Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Monmouthshire, Newport, Torfaen, and Vale of Glamorgan are invited to register their interest: https://solartogether.co.uk/south-east-wales/home

Marie-Louise Abretti, Solar Together UK Business Manager, said:

“With energy prices continuing to fluctuate, residents of South East Wales are looking for opportunities to reduce their carbon emissions, save on energy bills, and increase their independence from the grid. The Solar Together group-buying scheme offers a straightforward way to make an informed decision and to access a competitive offer from a trusted, vetted provider.” 

Councillor Dan De’Ath, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Strategic Planning and Transport for Cardiff Council, said:

“Installing solar panels could potentially save homeowners money on their energy bills as well as helping Cardiff achieve its carbon neutral ambitions, but the idea can seem daunting. By bringing the Solar Together scheme to South East Wales, we hope to replicate the success the scheme has already had in other areas of the UK, in encouraging and supporting people to make the leap to a cleaner, greener future.”

Cllr Sean Morgan, Leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council and CCR’s Portfolio Lead for Climate Response, commented:

“I’m delighted that Solar Together is now available in South East Wales, joining hundreds of local authorities across the UK already benefitting from the scheme.

“By making the switch to renewable energy more accessible for households across the region, the Solar Together scheme will help us take tangible steps towards achieving our regional and national net zero ambitions.”

Visit solartogether.co.uk for further information.

Business, Investment

Welsh Government and Cardiff Capital Region welcomes news of £250m investment into compound semiconductor industry

Vishay Intertechnology has announced a £250m investment in its semiconductor site in Newport to revolutionise the production of electric vehicles.

The investment, supported by the UK Government’s Automotive Transformation Fund, will amplify Vishay’s production of advanced silicon carbide semiconductors, a key tool in increasing the efficiency of electric vehicles.

First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, said:

“Compound semiconductors are small but vital bits of our everyday lives and Wales is leading the way in their production and manufacture.

“I welcome the additional investment from the UK Government, which builds on the Welsh Government’s work over the last decade in supporting the growth of the semiconductor cluster. We are now reaping the rewards of our commitment, which we will continue to drive forward.”

Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, Leader, Monmouthshire Council, and Chair, Cardiff Capital Region said:

“This significant investment into the South East Wales compound semiconductor sector displays great confidence and shows the value of investment in the region.

“We welcome the news of this investment to develop the cluster, which has been a priority of Cardiff Capital Region, Welsh and UK Governments for several years.

“It is tremendous to see the benefits this will bring to the region in creating highly skilled jobs, accelerating our progress in the UK Automotive industry, and positioning us as a competitor in not only UK investment, but also globally.”

Business, Transport

Cardiff Capital Region begins public consultation on shaping transport provision in South East Wales

Consultation on the draft Regional Transport Plan (RTP) is open until 19th May, aimed at unlocking opportunities, connecting people and businesses and supporting the creation of jobs in the Region.

Cardiff Capital Region (CCR), the regional body made up of the ten Local Authorities in South East Wales, is consulting with the public and wider stakeholders on its draft Regional Transport Plan (RTP). From Monmouthshire to Bridgend, the Valleys to the coast, residents and visitors across CCR are invited to review the Plan, and its vision, objectives and policies.

CCR’s goal is to build a Competitive, Connected, and Resilient Region: the vision for the RTP is to establish an efficient, affordable, low-carbon transport network that enhances quality of life, fosters shared prosperity, and supports a carbon-neutral Region where walking and cycling are favoured for shorter journeys and includes decarbonisation of the transport network.

Now, the public is invited to have its say in consultation by visiting: https://regionaltransportplanccr.wales/.  Responses from the public will help shape the future of transport in the Region.

The consultation asks residents, businesses, and stakeholders to share their views through an online survey, webinar and a series of ‘pop-up’ events across the Region.

Cllr Andrew Morgan OBE, Chair of CCR’s Regional Transport Sub-Committee and the Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, said:

“CCR has already invested millions in Metro improvements and led the way on low-emission transport.

“But transport isn’t just about getting from A to B, it’s about unlocking opportunities, connecting businesses, creating jobs, and making our communities stronger and fairer.

“Our Regional Transport Plan will help us deliver a greener, smarter, and more inclusive transport network that supports economic growth and tackles climate challenge. We need to hear from those who use, or want to use, regional transport, so we encourage people to join in the conversation”.

Apprenticeships, Hospitality, Newport

CCR helps to fund the next generation of hospitality professionals in Newport

Tŷ Hotel Newport, which opened in 2024, is using part of its £9.7m funding from Cardiff Capital Region’s Strategic Premises Fund to finance on site practical training for hospitality students as it prepares the next generation for careers in the sector.

The Celtic Collection, which manages the hotel, collaborated with the University of South Wales to create a paid nine-month placement programme which provides hands on experience for students as they complete the practical training components of their hospitality and business management courses.

The two successful applicants, Deepu Chandran and Dilakshan Classen, began their placement at Coldra Court Hotel before moving over to Tŷ Hotel Newport for the hotel’s launch and the busy period following the opening.

The 146-bed hotel opened on 2 June, following a £9.7m investment from Cardiff Capital Region’s Strategic Premises Fund to finance the completion.

The investment was particularly focused on improving the environmental outputs in the hotel, with all gas-powered functions having been replaced with an all-electric system that uses heat pumps and photovoltaic panels on the roof.

The hotel is well placed to support the increasing level of activity at the International Convention Centre Wales (ICCW) and its opening coincided with the Royal College of Nursing’s conference.

Deepu and Dilakshan’s experience has provided the pair with opportunities to work in conferences and events, food and beverage and front office, to engage with the senior team in the Newport region of the Celtic Collection and pursue employment at the hotel following the completion of the placement.

Tracy Israel, Director of Talent and Development at the Celtic Collection, said: “We were delighted to partner with the University of South Wales to create these two placement opportunities at our Newport cluster hotels. It was a fantastic chance for the students to be

 

part of an exciting launch at Tŷ Hotel Newport and to get hands-on experience at a brand new venue which sets new sustainability standards as the largest all-electric hotel in Wales.

“Both Dilakshan and Deepu have immersed themselves in a wide variety of hotel and hospitality roles with enthusiasm and shown great aptitude for the work. We hope that they will be able to continue their careers with the Celtic Collection when they complete their placements and their MBA studies.”

Councillor Dimitri Batrouni, Leader of Newport Council and member of Cardiff Capital Region, said: “In keeping with CCR’s aim of making South East Wales a desirable place to live, work and invest, Tŷ Hotel Newport provides the perfect accompaniment to the various corporate and leisure events hosted at the ICCW and brings a significant positive economic impact to the local area by drawing guests to the region.

“The hotel highlights what Cardiff Capital Region can do with the Strategic Premises Fund and the success it can bring to local projects. I am delighted to see the hotel bring further benefits to the community through this collaboration with the University of South Wales to train the next generation of hospitality talent.”

Dr Andrew Thompson, Head of Subject for Global Business at University of South Wales, said: “We have been delighted to partner our MBA Global students at the University of South Wales, Deepu Chandran and Dilakshan Classen, with the Celtic Collection leading into the launch of Tŷ Hotel Newport. The Celtic Manor has a reputation far beyond Wales, and for students seeking to pursue careers in hospitality management we could not have wished for a more exciting collaboration.

“Deepu and Dilakshan have both gained experience which will stand them in good stead for their future careers, hopefully remaining here for a while longer in Wales. I would like to extend my thanks to Tracy Israel, Director of Talent and Development at the Celtic Collection, for championing our students’ interests.”

Business, Business Investment, Business News, Events, South Wales, UK, Wales

Cardiff Capital Region announces return to MIPIM 2025, the world’s leading property investment event

Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) officially launched its MIPIM 2025 Partnership Programme today at the Pyramid Suite, Sophia Gardens ahead of the international event in Cannes, France, 11-14 March 2025.

Hosted by CCR’s Chief Executive Kellie Beirne, with special guest Dame Nia Griffith, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Wales Office, the launch brought together private sector guests and public sector partners across the ten local councils that make up the Region.

Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, Chair, Cardiff Capital Region Committee, and Cllr Huw Thomas, Deputy Chair, Cardiff Capital Region both spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of attending MIPIM and how it enables the Region to showcase opportunities to investors and property developers from all over the world.

In 2025, CCR will be situated with other UK City Regions at La Croisette on the seafront, an important strategic move that sees the Region partner with other core UK destinations, whilst also retaining its own unique Welsh identity.

Dame Nia Griffith said:

“The UK Government’s key mission is economic growth and Cardiff and the surrounding area have a vital role to play in that mission. That is why we have invested in Cardiff Capital Region.

“Their attendance at this globally renowned exhibition is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the best of what our capital city has to offer to international investors. By working together we will encourage investment into Wales.”

Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, said:

“I’m delighted to see South East Wales represented on the international stage of MIPIM once again. Our presence shows we are serious about our ambitions and the critical role that inward investment plays to drive inclusive growth and prosperity, in collaboration with the private sector.”

Cllr Huw Thomas, added:

“Our city is at our best when we work in partnership, and especially so when we are showcasing our businesses on the global stage, and we’re excited to be returning to MIPIM in 2025 to show what Cardiff, and the region, has to offer. On a number of measures, we’re growing faster than other cities across the UK, and we want to make sure that success continues, supporting more and better jobs for our communities across the city and the Cardiff Capital Region.”

 

Considered the world’s leading global real estate event, ‘Marche International des Professionals d’Immobilier’ (MIPIM) attracts more than 20,000 participants each year, including 5,000 investors, 4,800 developers, and 500 journalists.

Business, Business Finance, Employment

Cardiff Capital Region celebrates commitment to Real Living Wage

Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) is now accredited as a Real Living Wage employer by the Living Wage Foundation. The Real Living Wage accreditation formally recognises CCR’s existing commitment to fair pay and driving inclusive economic growth.

The real Living Wage is the only UK wage rate based on the cost of living. In Wales, more than a tenth of all workers (12.9%) earn less than they need to get by, with around 161,000 jobs paying less than the real Living Wage.

CCR is also a tenant in Cardiff University’s sbarc|spark, Wales’ first Living Wage building which means all tenants are obliged to pay the real Living Wage to employees and onsite contractors.

Kellie Beirne, CCR’s Chief Executive, said:

“Fair economic opportunity is central to CCR’s ambitions to foster good growth across our Region. Our accreditation as a real Living Wage employer formally recognises our long-standing commitment to ensuring fair wages within our organisation, a milestone that sets the standard for businesses across our Region.

“By transitioning to a Corporate Joint Committee, CCR has gained new powers and responsibilities as an independent public body which has made formal accreditation possible, allowing us to carve our own identity and mature as an organisation. This will lay the groundwork for us to build upon our wider vision of regional prosperity.”

Councillor Huw Thomas, Leader of Cardiff Council and Deputy Chair, CCR Committee, adds:

“I am pleased that Cardiff Capital Region has gained the real Living Wage Accreditation. Since becoming a public body earlier this year, CCR’s commitment and determination to further fairer working in our Region aligns with Cardiff Council, which was the first capital city to become a real Living Wage City in 2019.

 

“As Chair of the Cardiff Real Living Wage Steering Group and Action Team, I’m an advocate for fair wages, which keep money within our local economy. After the Steering Group was recognised as ‘Local Champions’ at the Living Wage Champions Awards ceremony this summer, I’m glad to see further progress being made to strengthen the commitment to fair pay across the City Region.”

 

Councillor John Spanswick, Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council and Portfolio Lead for Economic Inclusion said:

“This is a very welcome pivotal move by the CCR team and it augurs well for future growth across the Region. Economic inclusion is the watchword for our ambitions to be a fairer and more prosperous Region.

By shining a spotlight on this issue we are taking determined steps to support our colleagues and demonstrate how valued everyone is.”

Katherine Chapman, Director, Living Wage Foundation said: “We’re delighted that CCR has joined the movement of over 14,000 responsible employers across the UK who voluntarily commit to go further than the government minimum to make sure all their staff earn enough to live on.

“They join thousands of businesses that recognise that paying the real Living Wage is the mark of a responsible employer and they, like CCR, believe that a hard day’s work deserves a fair day’s pay.”