Governance and Partners
Anglesey Freeport is a powerful partnership between the Isle of Anglesey County Council (IACC) and Stena Line – one which spans nearly three decades.
For generations, IACC and Stena Line have worked together to drive forward change on the Isle of Anglesey, using their combined expertise to deliver for local residents, businesses and the wider North Wales economy.
The Freeport is in the unique and privileged position of operating under one local authority (IACC), and one port owner, Stena Line – who also own the surrounding seabed incorporating the Freeport’s blue innovation zone. This strong and dynamic partnership allows for greater cohesion and unity of purpose, as well as efficient decision making.
Governance of Anglesey Freeport is overseen by the Interim Freeports Governance Board, co-chaired by Stena Line Executive Director Ian Hampton, and Chief Executive of Isle of Anglesey County Council Dylan Williams.
The Freeport is supported by a wide range of expert partners, incorporating the world’s leading authorities in international trade and customs law, such as KGH Maersk, Competere and the Institute of Export & International Trade.
In addition, the Freeport is in the privileged position of being supported by an array of local and regional partners whose expertise will play a central role in the success of the Freeport – including innovation centre M-SParc Science Park and leading education establishments Bangor University and Grŵp Llandrillo Menai.
As we move into the operational phase, the Interim Freeports Governance Board will be expanded to include landowners, investors and local and regional stakeholders.
Chief Executive of Isle of Anglesey County Council Dylan Williams and Stena Line’s Head of UK Port Authorities Ian Davies at the Port of Holyhead in May 2023, celebrating the designation of Freeport status with local businesses and elected officials.
Stena Line
Stena Line is one of Europe’s leading ferry companies with 38 vessels and 18 routes operating 25,000 sailings each year. A leader in green shipping and ports, it has put environmental sustainability at the heart of all its future operations as it strives to become a zero-carbon company. It has a long and proud history of operating out of the Port of Holyhead, which it has owned for 27 years and is now the largest ferry and port operator on the Irish Sea. Stena Line understands the importance of continued investment in the communities in which it operates and is determined that the new freeport delivers prosperity for North Wales.
Isle of Anglesey County Council
The Isle of Anglesey County Council is the local authority for the island. The Council’s aim is to work towards an Anglesey that is healthy and prosperous where families can thrive. The Council works in partnership with the community to guarantee they can cope effectively with change and developments, whilst protecting the natural environment. The Isle of Anglesey County Council also run the Energy Island Programme – an ambitious programme of innovation and investment in green energy on which this freeport bid builds.
