MSP Jamie Greene has welcomed the Chancellor reaffirming his commitment to the Ayrshire Growth Deal as he announced the 2019/20 UK Budget.

Chancellor Phillip Hammond noted that the UK Government “continues to make good progress towards deals for Ayrshire and the Borderlands, and is working with the Scottish Government, alongside local partners.”

The deal specifically focuses on the aerospace, life sciences manufacturing and tourism industries. The Chancellor of the Exchequer confirmed the project. It is projected to create over 5,000 jobs and lead to both short-term and long-term economic growth in Ayrshire.

The Ayrshire Growth Deal aims to fund transformative projects and create inclusive growth through Scottish innovation.

The Prime Minister announced this year the UK Government’s intention to enter into talks with the Scottish Government into agreeing a funding settlement for Ayrshire.

Mr Greene is due to meet with representatives from the Ayrshire local authorities and other elected representatives this week to discuss developments in the Growth Deal. Proposed projects include developing a spaceport at the Prestwick Airport, creation of a Medical Manufacturing Innovation Centre, developing the Irvine Harborside and Ardeer Peninsula and investing in the Bellfield Interchange and A76.

Mr Greene said: “The UK Government has shown once again that it will deliver jobs, growth and investment to North Ayrshire. I welcome the Chancellor reaffirming his commitment to the Ayrshire Growth Deal in the budget.

“The Ayrshire Growth Deal will be a big leap forward for a region and will be instrumental in delivering jobs, growth and inward investment into North Ayrshire.”