Wales’s steel industry has received a boost with news that the Welsh Assembly government is to provide nearly £3 million to help secure over 550 jobs in the sector.

Economy Secretary Ken Skates confirmed earlier this month that £2.8 million will be invested to help create 90 new steel jobs in Wales and safeguard a further 477.

He said that the investment at Code Serve in Brynmawr, Dyfed Steels in Llanelli, Express Reinforcements in Neath and Celsa Steel in Cardiff will help to secure “a sustainable future” for the Welsh steel industry.

He added: “The future of the steel industry and steel-related businesses is hugely important to manufacturing in Wales.

“Indeed, the steel sector is a key priority for the Welsh Assembly government, and I am delighted to announce support for four businesses that, between them, are investing £8.75 million in new facilities, new equipment, expansion projects and environmental improvements in Wales.”

Mr Skates also announced that he is setting up a £1 million fund to establish a new business hub in Wrexham, to support the creation of 100 new enterprises and 260 new jobs over the next two years.

It will provide “wraparound support for aspiring entrepreneurs” and will be delivered by Business Wales, which is backed by EU funding.