Progress and partnership on display at Royal Welsh as leaders highlight mid-Wales investment milestones
Progress and partnership on display at Royal Welsh as leaders highlight mid-Wales investment milestones
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Senior figures from the UK and Welsh Governments joined Growing Mid Wales (GMW) at the Royal Welsh Showground on Monday to highlight the continued momentum behind regional investment and reaffirm their commitment to unlocking new opportunities across Mid Wales.
As several initiatives under the Mid Wales Growth Deal approach the delivery phase over the next 12–15 months, discussions at the event focused on how collaborative working between local and national partners is fuelling economic development across the region.
The Mid Wales Growth Deal, a key driver of regional investment, has now secured over £110 million in joint funding from both the UK and Welsh Governments. This public investment is expected to unlock more than £400 million in total funding, create between 1,000 and 1,400 jobs, and boost productivity and GDP in the region.
Over the past year, the Growth Deal has achieved several notable milestones, including:
- Launch of the Mid Wales Commercial Property Investment Fund, aimed at developing high-quality commercial premises to support business growth.
- Full business case approval for Digital Programme projects, improving broadband access in rural and underserved communities.
- Progress in key sectors such as tourism and foundational industries, supporting innovation, sustainability, and resilience.
The Growth Deal is part of a broader portfolio of initiatives spearheaded by Growing Mid Wales, designed to address structural challenges and build on the region’s distinct strengths. These complementary efforts are working in tandem to foster sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
Beyond the Growth Deal, GMW has made significant strides in other areas, including:
- UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) investments, which are supporting local regeneration and business development.
- Clean energy innovation projects, exploring rural energy solutions and low-carbon technologies.
- Regional Skills Partnership programmes aligning training with employer needs to improve workforce readiness.
- Development of a new Regional Transport Plan, aimed at enhancing connectivity across Mid Wales.
In a joint statement, Councillor Bryan Davies, Leader of Ceredigion County Council, and Councillor Jake Berriman, Leader of Powys County Council, Co-Chairs of the Growing Mid Wales Board, said: “We’ve reached important milestones through the Growth Deal, but that’s just part of the story. By building on our strengths and working collaboratively, we’re securing wider investment and laying the foundations for a more prosperous, better-connected Mid Wales.
“We’re proud of the progress made not only through the Growth Deal, but across our broader regional work – from energy to skills and regeneration. We look forward to working with both governments to realise future opportunities as part of the new UK industrial strategy and any further investment to continue delivering our shared ambitions for Mid Wales.”
Wales Office Minister Dame Nia Griffith added: “The UK Government is proud to invest in the future of Mid Wales through the Growth Deal, helping us achieve our mission of economic growth for every part of Wales.
“We are already seeing positive results, and by continuing to work closely with local partners, we can ensure the region thrives and there are good opportunities for generations to come.”
“Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, commented: “The £55m Welsh Government contribution into the Mid Wales Growth Deal will foster the right conditions to promote economic prosperity and enable businesses to flourish in Mid Wales.
“It will unlock the region’s significant potential, create quality jobs, and deliver lasting benefits for communities.”
The event formed part of Growing Mid Wales’ presence at the Royal Welsh Show, highlighting how strategic partnership and investment are helping the region move forward with confidence.
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