£2bn ‘Invest in Scotland’ portfolio launched

Opportunities to invest in nine projects worth more than £2 billion to Scotland’s economy have been announced by Economy Secretary Derek Mackay.

The updated Invest in Scotland prospectus  seeks to secure international investment in a mixture of public and private sector projects across Scotland.

Projects highlighted include the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District in Renfrewshire, Edinburgh Bioquarter, Dundee Waterfront and Glasgow’s Buchanan Wharf — the location of a new Barclay’s campus which will create up to 2,500 jobs.

Paul Lewis, managing director of Scottish Development International, said: “Investment in infrastructure is key to a robust, sustainable and inclusive economy.

“  Scottish Enterprise are working alongside partners to attract capital investment to Scotland, using our extensive international networks and capitalising on the opportunities presented by events like MIPIM.”

Launching the new prospectus at the MIPIM UK property conference, Mackay said: “Scotland has a strong and attractive investment offer.

“Our growing economy, thriving cities, outstanding talent, world class universities, leading-edge innovation, and high quality of life means there is much to offer international investors.

“The ‘Invest in Scotland’ prospectus showcases market ready opportunities for investors.

“These projects, worth some £2 billion to our economy, will deliver new jobs and local investment and grow our reputation as a global leader in innovation.

“The Scottish Government has developed a highly-competitive package to encourage and de-risk investment, including rental guarantees, business rate exemptions, funding schemes and planning reforms.

“This is about strengthening the competitiveness of our economy to attract new investment and support existing investors to grow and expand.”