'Highland freeport could create 20,000 jobs' - says independent experts
They say the special status would spark an employment boom
Last updated 26th May 2022
New research shows up to 20,000 jobs could be created with an Inverness and Cromarty Firth green freeport
Independent economic experts say freeport status would spark an employment boom in the Highlands.
In a report, Biggar Economics said the bid for freeport status put forward by Opportunity Cromarty Firth (OCF) could add a further 20,000 jobs to those already expected in the construction of a windfarm in the area.
Cromarty firth green freeport backed by key partners
Freeports are special economic zones where customs rules such as taxes do not apply until goods leave the area.
OCF has launched a bid in the latest freeport competition which will see two new green freeports in Scotland.
The consortium is made up of local business leaders and is backed by key partners such as the Highland Council and the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI).
The body has argued that Inverness and the Cromarty Firth is the only location in Scotland which can deliver the ambitions set out in the UK Government's energy security strategy which includes a five-fold increase in offshore wind capacity.
The port facilities at Invergordon and Nigg on the Cromarty Firth have already supported more offshore wind projects than any other Scottish ports.
Status would "transform" Highland economy
Bob Buskie, chief executive of the Port of Cromarty Firth, said: "This report shows how the Highland economy will be transformed if Cromarty Firth gains Green Freeport status.
"It will also help the Firth level up and tackle a number of areas of deprivation, as well as enabling the UK to meet the local content targets set in the Offshore Wind and North Sea Transition Sector Deals.
Roy MacGregor, Chairman of Global Energy Group, which owns The Port of Nigg on the Cromarty Firth and is a member of OCF, added: “This is one of the biggest industrial opportunities Scotland has ever had and the Highland area is at its heart.
“With the Cromarty Firth’s facilities and experience, long-established connections with industry and local content targets, Green Freeport status would enable tens of thousands of high-quality jobs to be created in this region, which has significant areas of under investment and deprivation.
“Only the Cromarty Firth can create a globally competitive hub and secure the UK’s market leading position in both floating wind and green hydrogen, delivering the jobs, skills and exportable industry which will revolutionise the economy of the Highlands and ensure the UK capitalises on the opportunities presented by floating wind.”
Falck Renewables, BlueFloat Energy and Orsted UK, in a joint statement, said: "Many independent and industry reports into creating a successful offshore wind industry in Scotland point to the Cromarty Firth as providing the unique blend of attributes required.
"That is why we are calling on the UK and Scottish Governments to choose the Cromarty firth as one of the locations for Green Freeport status."