MSP wants reassurance on funding

Clare Haughey MSP has called on the Scottish Government to continue to help fund Clyde Gateway projects in Rutherglen.

Ms Haughey questioned Kevin Stewart MSP, the minister for local government and housing, in parliament last week.

She also asked for reassurances that the government would make money available to clear up industrial land in the Burgh.

Mr Stewart said they were committed to £3million funding for Clyde Gateway over the next year, but refused to commit further, saying additional funding was being considered as part of a spending review.

On Rutherglen’s industrial past, Ms Haughey explained: “Contaminated land is an unwelcome legacy in my constituency because of the area’s industrial past.

“Can the cabinet secretary give an assurance that the Clyde Gateway project will receive funding to allow it to continue its land decontamination work in the Shawfield area of Rutherglen?”

Mr Stewart responded, saying: “Officials are currently assessing South Lanarkshire Council’s proposals for allocating its share of the vacant and derelict land fund in 2016-17, and a decision will be issued in due course.

“Officials are also working closely with Clyde Gateway to seek further investment and funding opportunities to support the project’s activities.”