Bristol mayor Marvin Rees has recently put forward two hugely ambitious major infrastructure projects.

The first is his plans to tear down the Cumberland Basin and create what he is calling a ‘Western Harbour’, with a new bridge and new homes.

Rees has also proposed a £2.5 billion underground system for the city, connecting Bristol Airport with Temple Meads and Cribbs Causeway.

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And with the council closing public toilets and cutting lollipop crossings across Bristol to save money, how will this all be paid for?

A clue is the destination that Rees is flying to on Tuesday.

In China, Rees will attend one of the world’s leading business events, the Fortune 500 Forum, which this year takes place in Bristol’s twin city of Guangzhou.

On his way to China, Rees will make a stopover in Malaysia where he will meet representatives from the YTL Corporation, owners of Wessex Water, who recently acquired the disused Filton airfield and also the nearby Brabazon Hangars, thought to be being considered as a potential site for Bristol Arena.

Speaking ahead of his departure, Rees said: “I am delighted to have the chance to show business leaders from China, the US and around the world the exciting prospects on offer here in Bristol.

“Whether it’s Bristol’s hugely successful and expanding Temple Quarter or the new development opportunities on the Western Harbour site, we have a huge amount to offer here in Bristol.

“Attracting much needed investment will bring us one step closer to transforming areas of the city for the benefit of everyone, both businesses and citizens.”

Read more: ‘The future of Bristol is simply too important to be held to one man’s ego’