EMCCA becomes new accountable body for freeport

The East Midlands Combined County Authority has become the accountable body for East Midlands Freeport – strengthening regional oversight of one of the UK’s most significant growth and investment opportunities.

The change is designed to strengthen coordination across major growth programmes, support investor confidence and help deliver long-term benefits for communities across the region.

The East Midlands Freeport is the UK’s only inland freeport and plays a key role in the region’s economic future.

It focuses on three major development sites, including East Midlands Intermodal Park, close to Toyota Manufacturing UK’s Burnaston plant, in South Derbyshire.

Freeports are specially designated areas, usually around ports or airports, where businesses can benefit from tax reliefs and simplified customs arrangements.

The aim is to encourage new investment, create jobs, and grow local economies.

The East Midlands Freeport is expected to add £9 billion to the regional economy over the next 25 years, create 28,000 jobs and retain £1 billion in business rates to reinvest locally.

Since its creation, it has operated as an independent company, with Leicestershire County Council acting as the accountable body.

As the new accountable body, EMCCA will receive and manage public funding on behalf of the freeport, ensuring it is spent transparently, responsibly and in line with government requirements, while providing robust financial oversight and governance.

By bringing responsibility under EMCCA, economic development programmes will be better aligned, including the East Midlands Investment Zone (EMIZ), which includes Infinity Park Derby.

Backed by £160 million of government funding and delivered by EMCCA, EMIZ is supporting innovation and growth in the advanced manufacturing and clean energy sectors.

Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward said: “East Midlands Freeport is one of the most significant economic opportunities our region has seen in a generation.

“By becoming the Freeport’s accountable body, EMCCA will help ensure our plans for jobs, investment and growth are better aligned across the East Midlands.

“This will help us present a clear, confident offer to those looking to invest here, while ensuring the benefits are felt by our communities through high-quality jobs, stronger infrastructure and long-term reinvestment.”