POLITICIANS from across the political spectrum have backed Hunterston as the site for the potential factory for train giant Talgo.

Cunning ha me North MSP Kenneth Gibson, West Scotland MSP Jamie Greene and North Ayrshire Council Leader Joe Cullinane have all expressed their excitement ofthe chance of up to 1,000 jobs coming to North Ayrshire.

Mr Gibson said: “The potential for 1,000 new, highly skilled jobs at Hunterston PARC is an exciting one.

“I first discussed this with the Peel Group last year, along with other potential site uses. I am delighted that their hard work in bringing Talgo on board is nearing fruition. Of course, there is strong competition from the other five sites being considered.

"However, with 5.7 kilometres of track at Hunterston, it’s grid connections and deep water port that makes Hunterston so unique, I believe that there is a more than fighting chance that this exciting manufacturing facility will come to North Ayrshire.”

Councillor Cullinane said: “This is good news for Hunterston and North Ayrshire and will be fantastic news if Talgo were to confirm that they will be investing in North Ayrshire when they make their decision in November.

“Hunterston has a rich industrial history and is perfectly positioned to be the site for Talgo.

“There is so much already in place. The Hunterston Marine Yard with one of the largest dry docks in the country; two rail terminals and over 300 acres of development land.

“The site has deep-water links for global export and import trade and low cost rail and road options linking the site with central Scotland and beyond.

“Regeneration and building our economy is an absolute priority of this council. We have been working tirelessly with our partners and real progress is being made. We are a council that supports a range of industr ies and fully embrace technology.

“Team North Ayrshire – business experts from the public and private sector – have done some fantastic work helping local firms. They’ve helped create a really supportive and inclusive environment which puts us in a really strong position to take advantage of potential investments like this from Talgo.

“We have a skilled workforce and are future-proofing our workforce through a range of initiatives with schools, colleges and various partners.

“North Ayrshire will be ready for this investment and we are determined to make the most of it.”

Jamie Greene MSP added:“This is hugely exciting news for North Ayrshire which could provide a much needed boost to our economy and deliver 1,000 jobs for the local community.

“Talgo produces some of the most high-tech and modern trains in Europe, particularly in Spain and Germany. By setting up shop in Scotland we are sending a message to the rest of the world that we are a leader in manufacturing, which will in turn spur further investment into our country.

“All parties in North Ayrshire should put aside their differences and put every effort in to ensuring that we can bring this factory to North Ayrshire.

“As Shadow Transport Minister I hope to be able to secure a meeting with Talgo representatives in the near future to discuss this exciting opportunity.”

A decision on the new factory is expected early next month.