Ayrshire Growth Deal on table for Mundell visit
Plans for an ambitious Ayrshire growth deal have been laid before the Secretary of State for Scotland.
David Mundell met with the region’s three council leaders, chief executives and Scottish Enterprise to learn more about the proposals.
It follows the agreement earlier this year – by councillors of all three local authorities – to approve the ‘ Ayrshire Growth Deal Prospectus’.
The document, submitted to the Scottish and UK Governments for consideration, sets out proposals that will see the councils join forces to push Ayrshire’s economy.
Those behind the project say a successful bid will form the basis of a “long- term economic and investment strategy” that will combine both the public and private sector.
Following the meeting in Kilmarnock, Councillor Douglas Reid, leader of East Ayrshire Council, said: “The Minister’s visit to East Ayrshire presented the ideal opportunity for us to outline our proposals to accelerate economic growth across Ayrshire, which will in turn support Scotland’s own growth ambition.
“By working closely with governments on the agenda set out in our prospectus, we believe that we can realise our full potential, creating jobs and prosperity for all our communities.
Councillor Willie Gibson, leader of North Ayrshire, added: “We have consulted extensively with partner organisations and with local business to identify what the constraints to the Ayrshire economy are and where there is untapped potential for economic growth given the right support being available.
“We have identified opportunities for national and local government to work together to support regeneration that can make a difference.
And South Ayrshire leader Bill McIntosh confirmed: “We very much welcomed the opportunity to sit down with the Secretary of State to outline our ambitions for the Ayrshire economy and set out the positive difference the Ayrshire Growth Deal will make for people, businesses and communities not just in Ayrshire, but right across the country.
“We want to ensure that Ayrshire can punch well above its weight at both Scottish and UK levels in terms of its economic contribution and we will continue to do everything we can to deliver on that ambition and we look forward to working with the UK and Scottish Governments to achieve that.”
Mr Mundell added: “It is great to see the local authorities working so well together, and I look forward to working with them over the coming months to continue to develop the detail of the proposals.”