The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) 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.
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.”
The move to EMCCA follows national direction that mayoral authorities should lead local industrial strategy and growth initiatives. The Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy sets out how Industrial Strategy Zones will align Freeports and Investment Zone initiatives to provide a clear offer to investors and developers, supporting regions to realise their economic potential.
Tom Newman-Taylor, Chief Executive of East Midlands Freeport, said: “This marks an important step in the next phase of East Midlands Freeport’s development. As devolution continues to shape how economic growth is delivered across the UK, bringing accountable body responsibilities into EMCCA provides a strong foundation for closer alignment with regional priorities and a more joined-up approach to investment, infrastructure, and skills.
“I would like to place on record my thanks to Leicestershire County Council for its support and stewardship as our accountable body since the Freeport was established. The council has played a vital role in helping us build the strong governance and delivery foundations that have enabled us to reach this point. Leicestershire will continue to be a founding Member and key partner, recognising the cross-border nature of the Freeport.
“We already have a strong relationship with the Mayor, and this is just the next step in deepening that collaboration. Together, we are well placed to maximise the opportunities presented by the UK’s only inland Freeport and the wider Trent Arc and continue to support growth for communities and businesses across the region.”
Since its creation, the Freeport 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 East Midlands 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). 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.
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:
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:
The Freeport team is now well established and taking big steps towards delivering jobs and investments across the region over the coming years.
Published on: 7 August 2026
Categories: News, Economic Development