Humber Freeport strengthens board

Humber Freeport has strengthened its board with a series of senior public and private sector appointments as it moves into its delivery phase and accelerates regional growth plans.

The expanded board now includes representation from all four local authorities across the Humber region, alongside leaders from both the Hull and East Yorkshire and Greater Lincolnshire mayoral combined authorities.

New appointments include Tom Wheldon, director and head of region for Yorkshire and the North East at HBD, part of Henry Boot, bringing experience in property development and land acquisition. 

Tom said: “I’m pleased to join the Humber Freeport Board at such a pivotal moment for the region. 

“The scale of opportunity across the Freeport’s tax sites is significant, and the momentum already building demonstrates real confidence.

“Continued collaboration between the public and private sector will help accelerate growth, support the creation of skilled jobs, and ensure the Humber continues to position itself as an international hub for manufacturing.

“We look forward to starting on site with FREEPORT 36 at Goole; a brand new £130 million commercial ecosystem, delivering up to 5 million sq ft of high-quality, sustainable space and providing the facilities businesses need to expand and drive research and development.”

Matt is joined by Matt Jukes, chief executive of Hull City Council; Paul Bellotti, chief executive of East Riding of Yorkshire Council; and Sharon Wroot, interim chief executive of North East Lincolnshire Council.

Alan Menzies, interim chief executive of Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority, and Professor Neal Juster, representing Greater Lincolnshire, also join the board.

Chaired by Finbarr Dowling, the board will guide Humber Freeport as it drives investment and job creation across priority sectors including manufacturing, clean energy and agri-tech.

Finbarr added: “I’m delighted to welcome our newest directors. 

“They bring a depth of knowledge and experience, spanning both public and private sectors, to enhance further the very considerable capability on our board.

“We look ahead to 2026 with renewed conviction that the Freeport has a vital role to play in supporting the Government’s plan for growth, attracting and supporting the major investments that create skilled jobs and a breadth of supply chain opportunities.

“We continue to receive significant interest in our three tax sites and are speaking with potential investors who see the Humber as a fantastic place to do business.

“We have the land, and the incentives, to make a real impact in our region, by delivering on our key objective – to attract investment and drive economic growth.”

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