Cyngor Gwynedd supports case for an Innovation, Business and Skills Centre at Trawsfynydd

Cyngor Gwynedd’s Cabinet has supported the next steps to develop an Innovation, Business and Skills Centre proposed at the former nuclear power station site at Trawsfynydd.

The Centre is envisioned as a multi-use hub designed to deliver long-term, high-value employment linked to opportunities in nuclear decommissioning, low-carbon energy, AI, and emerging technology sectors.

The project, totalling approximately £20 million, aims to strengthen the local workforce, support regional supply chains, and catalyse broader socio-economic regeneration in Meirionnydd. It will provide facilities and skills development in line with Welsh and UK Government priorities such as net-zero transition, innovation, and regional regeneration.  

Sponsored by Cyngor Gwynedd, the Centre will provide flexible office, laboratory, training, and collaboration spaces to support research, skills development, business growth, and innovation. It represents the first phase of a wider masterplan for the Trawsfynydd site, a strategic location within the Snowdonia Enterprise Zone and the North Wales AI Growth Zone. 

If successful, the project will deliver:

• 90 additional full-time jobs;  

• £21.8 million injection to the north Wales economy;  

• 3,000+ sqm of new commercial and research floorspace; and  

• Support for at least 100 enterprises, including SMEs, start-ups and supply chain firms. 

 

Councillor Nia Jeffreys, Leader of Cyngor Gwynedd said:

“This is positive and exciting news for the people of the area with the potential for high quality long-term job opportunities. 

“We welcome the proposals as they will help to address deep-rooted social and economic challenges in Meirionnydd and maximise the long-term economic value of the Trawsfynydd site.

“It’s an opportunity to develop people’s skills at a nationally significant site within Gwynedd and north Wales.”

Councillor Medwyn Hughes, Cyngor Gwynedd’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Community added:

“As highlighted in our Council Plan, ensuring that Gwynedd prospers economically and socially is a key priority.  This case for Trawsfynydd will be a catalyst to support sustainable employment in the area, to support businesses and to welcome new enterprises and innovation to the local supply chain.”

Councillor Elfed Powell Roberts local member for Trawsfynydd said:

"I welcome and support the good news that Cyngor Gwynedd is leading on this project.

"An innovation, business and skills centre such as this will attract investment and create good quality jobs for the long-term, which are very much needed in this area."

Following the Cabinet meeting, an outline business case will now be submitted to Ambition North Wales for North Wales Growth Deal funding.