Plans for Scotland’s newest enterprise areas revealed

PLANS to cut planning red tape and deliver high speed broadband access for Scotland’s newest enterprise areas were set out by finance secretary John Swinney today.

An international marketing drive will also be undertaken to promote the areas in the life sciences, renewable energy and general manufacturing fields in 14 sites around the country.

Business rate discounts worth up to £275,000 were among measures set out by Mr Swinney during a visit to the Port of Dundee this morning.

Mr Swinney said: “The Scottish Government has worked closely with our enterprise agencies to select these sites, which are strategic locations for some of our key growth sectors.

“Our Enterprise Areas are now open for business and Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise will work closely with local authorities and the business community to maximise the economic potential of each site.”

Charles Hammond, Chief Executive of Forth Ports, owner of the Port of Dundee, said the creation of the Low Carbon Enterprise Area will help establish the city as a “renewables hub.”

“The location of the port, with its deep water capability and land availability, makes it attractive to the offshore renewables manufacturing industry and we continue to progress a number of strong enquiries from companies keen to locate at the port.”