en.Wedoany.com Reported - Land preparation work has commenced in Grangemouth, UK, paving the way for future investments linked to the Forth Green Freeport. This marks the implementation phase of the freeport plan, with funds allocated for site preparation and infrastructure improvements. A related report is expected to be submitted to the Falkirk Council meeting on June 25.
Grangemouth, along with Rosyth and Mid Forth (including Leith and Burntisland), forms the largest approved tax site within the freeport zone. The Green Freeport offers tax and customs incentives to encourage investment in areas such as manufacturing, port activities, low-carbon industries, and future energy, aiming to attract up to £7.9 billion in public and private investment over the next decade.
A project on South Bridge Street has been initiated by Falkirk Council, utilizing seed capital funding to enhance access, install drainage and utilities, and prepare brownfield land for development. Currently, the largest proposed investment in Grangemouth is £5.5 million for land preparation at the Calachem site, which will bring approximately 20 acres of brownfield land back into use as a well-equipped industrial area. Additionally, £1 million has been set aside to increase port electricity capacity, and support work is underway to improve utility capacity around Grangemouth. The report notes that infrastructure constraints, particularly utilities, are a persistent issue in Grangemouth.
Paul Kettrick, Falkirk Council’s Head of Investment, Assets, and Climate, stated that the investment aims to prepare Grangemouth for future growth, enabling businesses to move into the area and supporting the local economic transformation. He noted that Grangemouth already has significant advantages as Scotland’s largest port, export hub, and long-standing industrial center, with current efforts focused on improving infrastructure to address practical barriers that could hinder projects, including access, drainage, utilities, electricity capacity, and brownfield preparation. While these may not be the most visible aspects of regeneration, they are essential for attracting new industrial activity. Kettrick added that this takes time, with final decisions resting with businesses, and the council’s role is to ensure Grangemouth is as competitive as possible. He hopes that when elected members review the report later this month, they will recognize this as a significant step forward for the area. The report indicates that investor interest has increased since the memorandum of understanding was signed in January, with multiple inquiries currently being processed. Falkirk Council serves as the Accountable Body for the Green Freeport, overseeing public funds and governance arrangements.
This article is compiled by Wedoany. All AI citations must indicate the source as "Wedoany". If there is any infringement or other issues, please notify us promptly, and we will modify or delete it accordingly. Email: news@wedoany.com
