The Forth Green Freeport has submitted its full business case to the UK and Scottish Governments.
Commenting on the submission of the FBC, Sarah Murray CEO of Forth Green Freeport, said: “This is a key milestone. Our detailed FBC will, following approval, help unlock the important seed capital required to accelerate the opportunity to attract inward investment into the Forth Green Freeport areas.
“This is a long-term project and through our thorough economic analysis, we know it will deliver significant benefits to both the local communities and the country as a whole.
“I am proud to lead this project, working in collaboration with our committed partners, to deliver this major economic regeneration opportunity.
“Although our FBC submission is a great step forward, we still have plenty to do over the coming months including the appointment of a strong delivery team.”
Dame Susan Rice DBE, Chair of Forth Green Freeport, said: “Our FBC outlines in fine detail how we will deliver our shared vision.
“Through strong public and private partnership and robust governance, Forth Green Freeport operates with the highest level of integrity which will be further reflected in our robust Fair Work and Investment Principles and our commitment to decarbonising the Forth area and to deliver for the local communities.
“The seed funding will be wisely invested to ensure that we maximise business growth in areas of underdevelopment to breathe new life into them and open opportunity for everyone.”
City council Leader Cammy Day said: “In another milestone for the Forth Green Freeport, the case has now been made to government.
“If approved, around £25million in seed funding will be triggered which will deliver major economic benefits to the region. For instance, money will be invested towards land preparation works to pave the way for a 30-hectare facility at the Port of Leith, leading to its emergence as a centre for offshore wind manufacturing and logistics. We’ve already received interest from potential manufacturers, and we’re keen to get moving.
“The full business case recognises the huge potential of our coastline and the untapped international trade and export capabilities of the Forth. The whole project presses for the innovation, regeneration and well-paid jobs we need to tackle our climate crisis and we hope that the UK and Scottish Governments agree when they respond to the Freeport early next year.”
Find out more at the Forth Green Freeport.