Dr Luke Evans, the Member of Parliament for Bosworth, has welcomed the submission of an East Midlands bid for Freeport status.

The bid which has cross party support, would see the establishment of a unique inland Freeport at the heart of the UK, would promise unrivalled rail connectivity to all UK ports and bring significant investment to develop and drive innovation, alternative energy sources and green technologies, creating close to 60,000 new skilled jobs to areas of deprivation in the East Midlands.

Dr Luke said “I am delighted to be supporting an East Midlands bid for Freeport status.

“A Freeport will support the region's economic stability and recovery after Covid-19 bringing with it up to 60,000 jobs. providing skills and training opportunities for local people.

“A successful bid will grow the East Midlands as a national hub for global trade and will attract investment to support business growth.

“A Freeport here in the East Midlands will be a tremendous driver for regeneration in our most deprived areas whilst at the same time prioritising environmental sustainability as we move to net zero.

“We have a strong bid which will bring with it tangible benefits for Hinckley and Bosworth and our region.”

The East Midlands Freeport bid has been submitted by a consortium including private sector businesses and local authorities, with support from universities, business groups, local MP's and the proposed Midlands Engine Development Corporation.