River Clyde identified as possible ‘Green Freeport’
A BID is to be submitted that – if successful – would see the River Clyde become the focal point of a major air, sea and rail economic zone.
The bid – to be tabled by various partners, such as Glasgow Airport and Mossed railfreight park – is for one of two so-called ‘Green Freeports’ identified for Scotland, as part of an UK-wide programme.
A Green Freeport is a geographical area of economic activity relieved of certain taxes and eligible for various, specific economic incentives.
Says the Scottish Government (here): “Green Freeports are designed to boost innovation and inclusive growth within communities, while supporting Fair Work First practices, creating new green jobs, upholding the highest environmental protections and supporting economic transformation.”
It adds that it has amended the UK programme details so that a Scots Green Freeport will deliver: (1) regeneration and high-quality job creation, (2) decarbonisation and a just transition to a net zero economy, (3) hubs for global trade and investment, and (4) an innovative environment.
Says a media release (here) issued by the bid partners: “Plans for Clyde Green Freeport are being prepared by AGS Airports’ Glasgow Airport, Peel Ports’ Clydeport, Mossend International Railfreight Park in North Lanarkshire and a partnership of the Glasgow City Region councils [Glasgow City Council, East Dunbartonshire, East Renfrewshire, Inverclyde, North Lanarkshire, Renfrewshire, South Lanarkshire and West Dunbartonshire]. The bid will be submitted later this month to the Scottish and UK governments for one of two green freeports in Scotland.”
If the bid were to come off, it would result in a “multi-billion pound” scheme.
Picture credit: bid partners