More than 200 projects with the potential to unlock £32 billion of investment across the South of Scotland have been identified in new research.
Commissioned by South of Scotland Enterprise, on behalf of South of Scotland Regional Economic Partnership, the research highlights 202 transformational projects spanning clean energy, natural capital, advanced manufacturing, technology, life sciences, tourism and the creative industries.
If realised, the opportunities could support 8,000 long-term jobs.
Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth will today chair a meeting of the Convention of the South of Scotland in Dumfries. It brings together the Scottish Government, Dumfries and Galloway Council, Scottish Borders Council and public sector partners to strengthen collaboration, align national and regional priorities, and support inclusive economic growth across the South of Scotland.
Ahead of the meeting, Ms Gilruth said: “We are committed to working closely with regional and local partners to make the most of the South of Scotland’s unique strengths and opportunities.
“Today’s Convention brings together leaders from across the region to discuss how we can turn this potential into reality, empower regional partnerships and ensure communities and businesses are well placed to benefit from future growth.”
Russel Griggs, chair of South of Scotland Enterprise, added: “This report highlights the scale of opportunity we have in the South of Scotland, and it can only get bigger and better.
“Given the right investment, and the housing, transport and skills to support it, it will help the South of Scotland’s economy grow further and make a powerful contribution to Scotland’s national economy and growth ambitions.”
The South of Scotland Regional Transformation Opportunities report is due to be published by the South of Scotland Regional Economic Partnership next week.
The Convention of the South of Scotland (CoSS) was established following the 2019 Programme for Government to improve alignment between the Scottish Government, Dumfries and Galloway Council, Scottish Borders Council and public sector partners operating across the region.
CoSS is chaired by the serving Deputy First Minister and provides a mechanism for bringing together cross-government interests, supporting delivery of national and regional priorities, and addressing current and future challenges facing the South of Scotland.
The Convention supports effective partnership working across the public sector and plays a key role in promoting inclusive economic growth throughout the region. CoSS meets twice a year, typically in spring and autumn, and meetings are held in public.
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