A major investment aimed at transforming the economy of Anglesey and the wider North Wales region has been announced, with £25 million set to kick-start the development of the Anglesey Freeport.

The funding — provided jointly by the Welsh Government and the UK Government — will support seven key projects designed to improve infrastructure, attract new investment and create jobs across the island.

A formal agreement has now been signed between both governments, Isle of Anglesey County Council and Stena Line UK, setting out how the freeport will be delivered and governed. The deal unlocks the first tranche of funding and marks the move from planning to delivery.

Freeports are designated areas where businesses benefit from tax breaks and incentives to encourage investment, and the Anglesey site is expected to play a major role in shaping the future economy of North Wales.

The £25 million will fund a range of projects across the island, including road improvements, energy infrastructure, site clean-up work and new facilities at Menai Science Park (M-SParc). These developments are aimed at preparing key sites for private sector investment and future job creation.

Work will also include improvements to the A5025 to support access to major employment sites, alongside investment in low-carbon energy and electrification at port facilities — helping position Anglesey at the forefront of green and advanced industries.

The plans build on a series of major developments in the region, including the proposed new nuclear project at Wylfa and the creation of a North Wales AI Growth Zone. Together, these initiatives are expected to complement each other, particularly in sectors such as clean energy, manufacturing and digital technology.

The freeport is projected to create up to 5,000 jobs by 2030, providing a significant boost to employment opportunities across Anglesey and beyond.

Economy Secretary Rebecca Evans said the investment sends a clear message about the future of the island’s economy.

She said putting the right infrastructure in place now will allow Anglesey to take full advantage of emerging opportunities in energy and technology, helping communities compete for high-quality jobs.

Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens described the announcement as a “significant moment” that could be transformational for North Wales, creating opportunities for generations to come.

Local leaders say the freeport represents a major step forward for the region. Council leader Gary Pritchard said the agreement demonstrates confidence in Anglesey’s potential to attract investment, support innovation and create skilled jobs.

Meanwhile, Ian Hampton of Stena Line said the project marks the beginning of the freeport’s operational phase, with partners now focused on delivering long-term economic growth while protecting the Welsh language and culture.

For North Wales, the Anglesey Freeport is being seen as a cornerstone project — one that could reshape the region’s economy, strengthen key industries and ensure the benefits of major investment are felt locally for years to come.