Haven Waterway Enterprise Zone chairman Nick Bourne gives his monthly update.

“The news on Murco has dominated local and national news over the last week.

“Murphy Oil, the US parent has rescinded the ‘exclusivity rights’ that were afforded to Greybull Capital, who was looking to buy the plant. Murco is now in a period of consultation with the workforce.

“The economy minister, Edwina Hart, has asked me to head up a task force to consider all possible options to help support the company respond to the emerging situation.

“The taskforce is already at work and will be meeting regularly over the coming weeks.

“Murco employs around 400 people and is vital to the local, Welsh and UK economy and of strategic importance to the energy sector.

“I understand that this is a very difficult time for all those involved but I am encouraged by the support of the Welsh Government and the determination and knowledge of the task force we have assembled, which includes representatives from Welsh and UK governments, Murco, Unite Trade Union and local government.

“The third round of the Welsh Government’s Enterprise Zone business rates scheme opened for applications at the end of last month, and businesses in the zone still have until June 3 to apply for up to £55,000 per annum in support.

“Since the scheme was launched 66 businesses amongst the Welsh enterprise zones have been approved for support totalling nearly £4.5m and it has been particularly popular in the Haven Waterway Enterprise Zone.

“I would urge every business in the zone to check out if they are eligible. If you have an enquiry about the scheme please call 03000 6 03000 or email businesssupport@wales.gsi.gov.uk.

“Further information is also available on the Business Wales web site business.wales.gov.uk/enterprisezones/business-rates-scheme.

“There has been good news in respect of Genpower, which has taken over the former Cambrian Windows site in Pembroke Dock.

“Cambrian Windows closed last year and the news was a major blow to the area.

“The site was recently included in the extended boundary of the Haven Enterprise Zone and I recently visited the business and met with Roland Llewellin, managing director and his staff.

“Genpower is expanding its operations after agreeing a deal with Korean giant, Hyundai, to distribute a wide range of garden machinery and powertools alongside goods manufactured in house, through its growing UK and Ireland dealer network.

“The new site will give the company additional space for warehousing, workshops, assembly capacity and a training facility.

“The move will create 35 jobs and safeguard another eight and has been supported by business finance from the Welsh Government.”