The ACE argues that Wales needs special treatment because its economic output, per capita, lags England by 25%.聽 Wales accounts for approximately 3.6% of total UK economic output despite having around 5% of the population.
Wales鈥� share of the UK鈥檚 total economic output has declined since the late 1980s.聽 Three of the five areas with the lowest per-head output in the UK are in Wales: Central Valleys, Gwent Valleys and Anglesey.聽 Economic output per capita in these areas is less than 60% of the UK total, the ACE says.
ACE Wales Group chairman Stephen Lawrence said: 鈥淓conomically, Wales clearly punches below its weight.聽 Creating a similar status to the government鈥檚 economic zones for Wales will help to generate extra economic activity, long-term jobs, and to secure investment in key infrastructure.
鈥淲ales has the opportunity to become a real economic force, with all the benefits to society that come with it.聽 The business community is keen to work with the Assembly Government to deliver more for Wales.鈥�
Got a story? Email news@theconstructionindex.co.uk
