The Forth Green Freeport (FGF) is officially “open for business” today, 12 June, following approval from the Scottish and UK Governments of its Outline Business Case.
This major step unlocks the investment incentives to deliver the green freeport vision.
Dame Susan Rice DBE, Chair of Forth Green Freeport, said: “This is it, Forth Green Freeport is officially open for business. It is an important time for the Green Freeport as we move through the business case development phase to delivery for Scotland.
“Through innovations in offshore wind manufacturing, assembly and commissioning, alongside innovative shipbuilding, modular assembly and hydrogen manufacture, the country’s net zero targets can be boosted by Forth Green Freeport.
“This is a long-term project and one which we know will deliver real benefits to the local communities through economic growth, skills re-training and training and access to high quality, green jobs.”
Responding to the news, Council Leader Cammy Day said: “The Forth Green Freeport is go – making North Edinburgh and the region open for significant investment and good, green, economic growth.
“The whole coastline has huge potential as we develop our city and address the climate emergency and, clearly, the Scottish and UK Governments agree. The news just this week of a global leader in sustainable energy potentially looking to invest in the Port of Leith is also testament to the opportunities Edinburgh has to offer.
“Our extension of Edinburgh’s tram line to Newhaven is already unlocking many areas in the North of the city for long-term investment and regeneration plus, our £1.3 billion green vision for Granton Waterfront is creating a brand new sustainable coastal community, with thousands of net zero homes.
“Through the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal we’ve already achieved massive success working collaboratively with our neighbouring councils, with central government and with the private sector. I’m looking forward to similar success with all the partners on the Forth Green Freeport.
“I’ve said all along that fair work and fair opportunities – with employers paying the real Living Wage and real benefits to the community – should be central to the Green Freeport’s plans.
“Following positive conversations with our partners, I’m pleased this is now confirmed with a Fair Work Charter right at the heart of everyone’s ambitions.
“Around 11,000 direct jobs are expected to be created as a result of the Forth Green Freeport, and we expect around 4,000 of those to be here in Edinburgh, which is major. This is of course long-term but we have the opportunity to not only boost employment opportunities but the skills we need in green industries as we address the climate challenge and work towards net zero as a city and country.”