Scottish secretary Mundell joins in talks
Politicians positive but no firm commitments as yet
Stirling’s elected representatives have spoken in positive terms about the progress in the City Deal negotiations.
MP Stephen Kerr and Stirling Council leader Scott Farmer each met with Secretary of State for Scotland David Mundell in the last week to discuss the deal, while MSP Bruce Crawford says he is expecting to see further funding committed to the project in the coming months.
Negotiations have been ongoing between the UK Government, the Scottish Government and Stirling Council for almost a year – and all three parties say talks are going in a positive direction, with hopes that the detail should be sorted out by the end of the year.
The deal comes as part of a business plan that would see public and private investment designed to grow the local economy, increase jobs and improve local people’s lives.
A new digital hub and harbour quarter with new council offices are among the plans proposed.
After meetings in the Stirling and Clackmannanshire areas last week Secretary of State Mr Mundell says he believes the deal can trigger a new era of prosperity in the area.
He said: “The talks with Stirling Council have been very productive and they build on the meeting I had with MPs Stephen Kerr and Luke Graham (Ochil and South Perthshire).
“The UK Government has been very clear in its commitment to the deal, and that is because we know it has the potential to be truly transformative.
“The Stirling and Clackmannanshire UK City Region Deal will deliver investment, create jobs, drive innovation and boost prosperity – and I look forward to driving it forward in the coming months.”
Mr Kerr hopes to have much of the detail surrounding the deal finalised by the end of the year.
He said: “We’re now getting into the detail of the deal but the critical element is the source of funding. There should be matched funding between the Westminster and Scottish Governments - both governments need to make equal commitments. I’m seeing some real enthusiasm from the UK Government.
“I’m really passionate about this and would like to get it all sorted out before the end of the calendar year. I’ve written to the Chancellor Philip Hammond and had a meeting with him and he is really positive about it all – and committed to delivering the city deal. It’s important we all work together, and pull in the same direction.
“Stirling Council officers have made a fantastic job of laying the groundwork and should be commended for their efforts.”
Mr Crawford added: “The City Region Deal is an ambitious project which could unlock a lot of potential for our area and I’m keen to see progress on negotiations continue in the positive direction they have taken to date.
“I remain in close contact with the Scottish Government and Stirling Council and will continue to assist in any way I can to keep the ball rolling.
“A lot of work has been put into the business case for investment and I am delighted that Stirling Council and the Scottish Government have been working collaboratively with the UK Government on the more technical aspects of this project. I hope to see further commitment in terms of funding over the next few months.”
The project was kick-started with a business proposal from Stirling Council officers, then backed by the Scottish and UK Governments.
SNP councillor Mr Farmer said: “I had a very constructive meeting with the Secretary of State for Scotland and will also be meeting the First Secretary of State in coming weeks to discuss Stirling’s City Region Deal.
“I’m confident the heads of terms will be agreed in principle before this year is out, which will allow Stirling Council, the Scottish Government, and the UK Government to consider how more specific aspects of the overall deal can be supported in forthcoming budget statements.
“This is an exciting project that would bring positive change for the whole Stirling area. It is for this reason that the collaborative approach we have taken is vital – leaving party politics at the door.”