Time is of the essence for Tay Cities Deal Approved £62 million projects turn up the heat over funding

One of the proposed beneficiaries of the Tay Cities Deal has called on the early release of funds after warning two projects are in danger of collapse.

The James Hutton Institute is hoping to create an international barley hub and advanced plant growth centre as part of the deal.

Permission for the £62 million projects has already been approved but Professor Colin Campbell, chief executive of the institute, says the funds are required quickly.

It comes after it was confirmed the deal would be signed next week.

Prof Campbell said: “We are facing an urgent and perilous situation, where two flagship projects which have global significance and make a disproportionate contribution to the local region, Scottish and UK economies, are in danger of collapse.

“Instead of creating 40 per cent of all the jobs and inward investment to the region, they now stand on the brink of costing local jobs, prosperity and global recognition because of delays to funding.

“The James Hutton Institute will always work in the best interests of everyone in the deal but right now, this is not a level playing field.

“We’ve worked hard to make this work for everyone in the deal and need all their support in return.”

On Wednesday, under secretary of state for Scotland Iain Stewart confirmed the deal would be signed next Thursday at Scottish Questions.

Responding from a question from Perth and North Perthshire MP Pete Wishart, Mr Stewart said: “I’ve had many constructive dialogues with the Right Honourable Gentleman on Tay Cities and I’m happy to confirm that they look good to go next Thursday to sign the deal.

“The delay was for a very good reason.

“As he’s alluded to, we were trying to get the UK Government’s side of the deal from 15 years down to ten years.”

Welcoming the news, Mr Wishart said: “I am delighted to hear that after significant pressure from elected representatives, the Tay Cities project partners and from local authorities, that the UK Government have finally agreed a date for the signing of the Tay Cities Deal.

“This is a vital economic package and will provide huge support to the local economy and create many new jobs.

“Although this funding was negotiated long before the effects of the COVID pandemic, I am sure that the economic benefits it will bring will have a profound impact across Tayside.”

Other projects set to benefit are the expansion of Pitlochry Festival Theatre, the refurbishment of

Perth City Hall, and the Cross Tay Link Road, along with a host of other initiatives.

Council leader Murray Lyle said he was “absolutely delighted” and thanked the other council leaders involved.

But he said some projects may need to be patient.

He told the PA: “We have got a really good deal that will inject huge amounts of money into Perth and Kinross.

“This will give people confidence in the region.

“The money is coming over ten years. Some people will be disappointed that theirs comes slightly later in the deal and others will be delighted to they get funding over the course of the programme.”