Councillor Anita Leech, as Chair of the Economy, Regeneration and Development Committee, introduced a report on that Committee’s recommendations, from its meeting on 4 March, in respect to Wirral Waters - Wirral Waters Enterprise Zone Investment Fund - Maritime Knowledge Hub. The report recommended the acceptance of funding from the Wirral Waters Investment Fund to the Council to support the development of new high quality mixed use floorspace at the Maritime Knowledge Hub.

On a motion by Councillor Anita Leech, seconded by Councillor Janette Williamson, it was -

Resolved – That funding from the Wirral Waters Investment Fund to the Council to support the development of new high quality mixed use floorspace at the Maritime Knowledge Hub, be approved.

Exempt appendices to Agenda Item 17: Maritime Knowledge Hub.

Resolved – That the exempt appendix to the Maritime Knowledge Hub report, be noted.

The report of the Director of Regeneration and Place sought approval to provide a grant to the Council to enable the delivery of new high quality Maritime Knowledge Hub floorspace in Wirral. The Maritime Knowledge Hub would create a world class centre of excellence for maritime business growth and sector development. It would bring together the region’s key maritime assets in business, research, education and training to address challenges around innovation and skills and build a high-profile centre.  The funding package had been set up within the Enterprise Zone to reinvest busines rates and could operate up to 2037.

RESOLVED –

That Policy and Resources Committee be requested to approve funding from the Wirral Waters Investment Fund to the Council to support the development of new high quality mixed use floorspace at the Maritime Knowledge Hub.