THE Welsh Government is to create an enterprise zone near Chester – which could create up to 5,000 jobs.

Business Minister Edwina Hart announced last night (Monday) Deeside was among the first five designated zones in Wales – with more to be announced later.

Welsh ministers had been urged to act after 21 enterprise zones were announced across England last month.

The five new Welsh zones will be at Anglesey, Ebbw Vale, Deeside, St Athan in the Vale of Glamorgan, and Cardiff.

Companies investing in the sites will receive rate relief and could benefit from tax breaks to expand.

Last month Flintshire County Council’s head of regeneration Dave Heggarty told the Chronicle the designation of Deeside as an enterprise zone could create 5,000 jobs on the site of the former RAF Sealand base.

Current plans for the land off the A550 include 650 residential units and 150 hectares of land for offices as part of the long-awaited Northern Gateway project.

Mr Heggarty helped to shape the initial bid, which could see the redeveloped site sit alongside the existing Deeside Industrial Park.

Last night Alyn and Deeside AM Carl Sargeant said: “This is fantastic news for Deeside, but it’s also great news for North East Wales too.

“The Northern Gateway site has the potential to create up to 5,000 jobs. I am grateful Ms Hart has recognised the importance and potential of Deeside to create employment in the advanced manufacturing sector.

“This announcement will enable more people to work locally and bring new opportunities for businesses, both local and national.”