AN APPLICATION for parts of the BCP Council area to become investment zones is being considered, the authority’s deputy leader has confirmed.

The low-tax zones announced by government feature looser planning rules in order to release more land for commercial and housing development.

They also offer a reduction of business taxes in an attempt encourage investment.

Criticism for the schemes came forward from both the National Trust and the RSPB in the days that followed chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng’s mini-budget on September 23.

Prior to Mr Kwarteng’s statement in the House of Commons, BCP Council deputy leader Cllr Philip Broadhead said on Twitter that he was “excited” for the investment zone plans.

He said: “Precisely the kind of solution focused plans we need.

“We’ve a number of areas in the BCP Council region that would be ripe for these plans - turbo charging investment and helping regeneration.”

However, days later BCP Council was not included in a list of 38 mayoral combined authorities and upper tier local authorities across England initially identified by government as potentially being suitable for investment zones.

Neighbouring Dorset Council and nearby Southampton City Council did feature on the list, which was released in late September.

The Daily Echo asked BCP Council if the local authority had lobbied or made submissions to government ahead of the announcement.

Councillor Broadhead, portfolio holder for development, growth and regeneration, said: “Government has made it clear that all councils are free to apply for investment zones, with a strong steer that that the zones be centred around projects or sites.

Bournemouth Echo: Councillor Philip BroadheadCouncillor Philip Broadhead (Image: BCP Council)

“The council is considering which of the many projects it has underway may be beneficial from the powers offered in the investment zone proposals and will then consider whether to apply.”

In announcing the investment zones, Mr Kwarteng said: “We will cut taxes. For businesses in designated tax sites, for 10 years, there will be: Accelerated tax reliefs for structures and buildings. And 100 per cent tax relief on qualifying investments in plant and machinery.”

He added: “If we really want to level up, we have to unleash the power of the private sector.”