Hunterston Port and Resource Campus is one of only a handful of Scottish development locations to be featured in a new UK Government drive to attract inward investment.
The historic coal port, which is now seeking to play a major role in the country’s net zero ambitions, was featured at the Global Investment Summit event at Windsor Castle on 19 October hosted by the Prime Minister and HM The Queen.
Described on the new Investment Atlas website as “A shovel-ready opportunity to invest in one of Europe’s largest dry docks...”, Hunterston’s marine yard is a significant national asset for the UK’s renewables and decommissioning industries.
Andrew Martin, Peel Ports’ Group Land and Property Director, said:
The marine yard that we have on-site here really is a vital part of our industrial capabilities in Scotland. It could play a vital role in the country’s green economic recovery, creating jobs for Ayrshire residents and opportunities for local businesses. It’s great to see that the UK Government has recognised the potential it represents and has chosen to put it in front of some of the world’s most important investors, who are also leaders when it comes to their green credentials.
Attendees at the event included Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and US climate envoy John Kerry.
Speaking in the run-up to the event, International Trade Secretary, Liz Truss, said: “The UK was one of the first governments in the world to set a net zero target by 2050 and we are still leading the global shift to clean economic growth. From wind turbines in Scotland to hydrogen development in Wales, the Global Investment Summit will be a fantastic opportunity to secure investment deals into the best of British green industry, allowing us to build back better, stronger and greener.”
Earlier this year an agreement was signed between North Ayrshire Council, Scottish Enterprise and Peel Ports to drive forward the short, medium and long-term plans for a key part of the Hunterston PARC site.
An initial focus for the partners will be developing a business incubator space within the existing buildings on the giant Ayrshire site, providing facilities for local firms to grow and collaborate. The ambition is to create a centre for innovation to support both the blue and circular economy, including research and development facilities.