AQW 23282/17-22

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 28/09/2021
Answered On Date: 14/10/2021
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for an update on the Atlantic Link Enterprise Campus in Coleraine; and (ii) what steps he is taking to maximise the potential of the resource.

Answer:

HM Treasury has responsibility for designating Enterprise Zones (EZs) and the Atlantic Link Enterprise Campus (ALEC) in Coleraine is the only designated Enterprise Zone (EZ) in NI. My Department’s role is to ensure that the designated area is developed by Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council (CC&GBC) in a way which is consistent with the application for designation and criteria, namely, that the EZ has a clear aim of attracting capital intensive companies.

The ALEC currently has one anchor tenant, Prescient Data (formerly known as 5NINES) and there are 12 acres remaining on site. CC&GBC is responsible for the ongoing promotion and marketing of the designated area for the ALEC.

Invest NI has assisted with promotional events to potential investors at the British Embassy in Dublin and the Guildhall in London. The International Investment Division are fully aware of the potential benefits of the ALEC. The entire International team (consisting of c.100 staff) have visited the Campus and continue to facilitate introductions to relevant events, conferences, and contacts in GB, RoI, and the US. Invest NI also promote the Campus on the property section of its website.

On 2 September 2021, I met with a representative from CC&GBC, to discuss ways in which my Department can support the actions they have planned to attract new tenants. Officials from my Department will continue to engage with CC&GBC on this work.