Ready for take-off in city’s economy
Proposed eco park will see jobs boom soon
Perth West could be key to the creation of thousands of local jobs, thanks to an investment opportunity launched by the Department for International Trade.
The plan has been unveiled as part of a new Scottish Investment Portfolio, with financial partners being sought to develop a new ‘Scottish Eco Innovation Business Park’ to the west of Perth.
The area in question has been unlocked by the major road infrastructure project currently happening on the A9/A85.
Councillor Murray Lyle, leader of Perth and Kinross Council, expressed delight at the Fair City’s inclusion in the wider investment: “Perth is a rapidly growing city, and there is a proven demand for residential and industrial land to help feed that growth.”
The business park will promote sustainable growth, with a focus on green innovation technologies incorporating urban living solutions, electrically enabled highways, and renewable district heating and power.
The investment land is part of a significant investment in Perth West that includes new housing
Beginning the first phase of the Perth Transport Futures Project in November 2016, to deliver major new transport infrastructure enabling the expansion of Perth and Bertha Park High School.
He continued: “The significant investment this council has made in developing the road network on the western boundary of the city, and in locating our new secondary school within that area, has unlocked the potential of this area of land.
“Investment in Perth West will create fantastic opportunities for growth to improve jobs, quality of life, and the local economy. This is a great time to invest in Perth.”
Council support for the Perth West project comes from all across the chamber.
Peter Barrett, leader of the Liberal Democrats group in the council, commented having the Perth West development site included within the Scottish Investment Portfolio “is a major coup for the area”.
He added: “With the Department for International Trade’s backing, the site can be marketed on a much bigger platform, raising the profile of this exciting investment opportunity, and bringing the whole of Perth and Kinross to the attention of global investors.”
Councillor Dave Doogan, leader of the opposition said: “Perth’s location at the heart of Scotland’s transport network makes this a very appealing location for business investment.”