The £1billion North Wales Growth Deal has taken a major step forward with the final agreement being signed, backed by £120m each from the UK and Welsh Governments.

The Isle of Anglesey will be the home of one of the first projects to benefit from the funding. Morlais, Anglesey Marine Energy, which is a Menter Môn project, will receive £9m from the Growth Deal which will unlock a further £26m from the Welsh European Funding Office, allowing the programme of work to progress.

The project, which is based off Holy Island, will have the potential to become one of the largest tidal stream energy sites in the world with a generating capacity of up to 240MW of clean electricity.

Virginia Crosbie, MP for Anglesey, said: “Morlais is a key factor in cementing Anglesey’s reputation as the energy island. Many organisations and individuals have come together to support the project and help move it forward. The signing of the North Wales Growth Deal today is a significant milestone in the development of marine energy off Anglesey and will help to create high quality jobs for local people.”

Speaking from Menter Môn, Dafydd Gruffydd said: “Today marks a real step towards Morlais becoming a reality. We are delighted with the support we have received and look forward the next steps with the project.”