Government plans to create two investment zones in Bath and North East Somerset aimed at boosting the economy have been given a cautious welcome by councillors amid concerns over their impact on the environment and local democracy.
Two sites – Bath City Enterprise Zone, which includes the Bath Quays development and the Somer Valley – are included in a proposal to attract investment under the government’s proposed investment zones scheme.
The flagship City Enterprise Zone regeneration project is already underway, creating high-quality workspace in the heart of Bath, including the city’s first major new office development for more than a generation, pictured right – with much more in the pipeline.
The Somer Valley Enterprise Zone (SVEZ), a 13.5-hectare greenfield site on the western edge of Midsomer Norton, pictured below, could create 1,300 jobs once developed.
While the government has not yet finalised its policy, it is believed investment zones will benefit from a range of tax incentives over the next 10 years, including relief on business rates, stamp duty, land tax and employer National Insurance contributions.
Ministers have also suggested they could also have simplified planning rules – with this in particular concerning Bath & North East Somerset Council (B&NES).
The council, along with Bristol City and South Gloucestershire councils, have worked with the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) to submit an initial expression of interest on investment zones to the government.
B&NES cabinet member for economic development, regeneration & growth Cllr Mark Roper said the council would always investigate any opportunities that could attract new investment to the area, supporting businesses and encouraging high-quality new jobs.
But he added: “Whilst it’s right that we explore these possibilities, we will be seeking assurances about the potential impacts of these proposed investment zones – particularly on environmental protection and planning – before we make any final decisions.
“Protecting nature is key to tackling the climate and ecological emergency and promoting biodiversity and green space is central to our plans for green renewal and sustainable economic development. These things must go hand in hand.”
He said the council reserved the right to withdraw its participation in the expression of interest if the proposed changes in planning and environmental legislation could have an adverse effect on B&NES planning, climate emergency and ecological emergency policies for the areas concerned.
Cabinet member for planning Cllr Tim Ball, said the council had made good progress on the Bath Quays and Somer Valley projects, with much-needed high-quality workspace created in Bath and planning for the SVEZ well underway.
“These schemes have been developed within our robust local planning frameworks and we would be very concerned about talk of national changes to the planning system being associated with these investment zones,” he added.
“We need incentives, investment and support from central government to speed up and finalise delivery so we can deliver high-quality, sustainable jobs in these areas.”
