Opportunity Cromarty Firth welcome publication of 'milestone' Scottish green freeports prospectus
Opportunity Cromarty Firth (OCF) has reaffirmed its determination to be one of Scotland's two green freeports following the publication of new guidance for bidders.
The OCF consortium was launched two years ago with the aim of creating a free trade zone centred on the Cromarty Firth, to help secure a sustainable 50-year pipeline of energy projects and sustainable jobs in the Highlands.
It is backed by the Port of Cromarty Firth (PoCF), Port of Nigg owner Global Energy Group, and more than a dozen regional businesses, as well as public sector organisations and academic bodies.
Speaking on behalf of the consortium, PoCF chief executive Bob Buskie welcomed the publication of a prospectus by the UK and Scottish governments setting out guidance for potential applicants.
Describing the publication as a key milestone in the bidding process, Mr Buskie continued: “We will study the document closely and intend to submit what we believe will be a compelling bid to create a Green Freeport here in the Highlands.
“OCF is absolutely determined to succeed in this process, which promises to bring significant and lasting benefits to the Scottish economy.”
Global Energy Group chairman, Roy MacGregor, added: “The Cromarty Firth is going to be at the heart of new offshore renewable energy and onshore infrastructure projects for decades to come.
“We believe that green freeport status will be vital in ensuring the Highlands can compete on a level playing field with the rest of the UK to realise the full potential that opportunity represents.
“It will attract fresh investment here, help ensure manufacturing facilities are established in the area and create many sustainable and much-needed jobs.”
