Minister on city deal fact-finding mission
First Secretary of State Damian Green MP came to Stirling last week to see first-hand how the city deal will transform the area’s economy.
Stephen Kerr, Stirling’s MP, met with Mr Green and spoke to him about the proposed projects in the city centre before joining him on a visit to the CodeBase facility which is due to open next month.
And after stopping by at the Engine Shed to look at the work which has gone on there, Mr Green made his way to Stirling Council for a chat with senior officials and council leader Scott Farmer.
The city deal was announced last autumn and negotiations have been ongoing between the UK Government, the Scottish Government and the local authority ever since.
Once completed the deal is expected to deliver hundreds of millions of pounds in investment in the local economy with projects including a new city park, digital district and a major regeneration project in the city centre.
The aim is to develop the area’s key sectors, achieve sustainable economic growth and tackle the economic and social inequalities which exist within the area.
Mr Green said: “It was fantastic to meet Stephen and the team in Stirling who have done a great job of pulling together these projects into the city deal proposal.
“It’s clear that they have big and ambitious plans for Stirling that will bring real long-term benefits to residents and businesses in Stirling.”
Mr Kerr invited the Secretary of State to the city in a bid to help build support at Westminster for the deal.
And he said: “A huge amount of work has gone into creating this city deal and I am keen to facilitate and finalise negotiations on the terms.
“Letting ministers around the cabinet table see what is happening and what is planned for Stirling will help make our case for a city deal that delivers for all of Stirling.”
Council leader Councillor Farmer also met with the First Secretary of State at Old Viewforth to discuss the exciting plans for the area.
And he insists negotiations between all parties are progressing well.
He said: “Our city region deal will make sure that Stirling becomes a place of opportunity for all, as well as a world class destination of choice for business and tourism.
“I am grateful to the First Secretary of State for taking the time to visit us to hear about our plans and to see first-hand the positive impact this could have for our region.
“The negotiations with the Scottish and UK Governments are progressing well and we are working towards a Heads of Terms Agreement.”
The Observer reported last week that Secretary of State for Scotland David Mundell held positive talks with both Mr Kerr and Mr Farmer to discuss the ambitious city deal plans.