PLANS have been revealed over 1,700 new jobs could be created at a massive investment at Hunterston.

Peel Ports has revealed its plans for the major port and industrial centre at Hunterston, one of Scotland’s most important development sites comprising a 300 acre brownfield footprint, deepwater, and rail connections.

Residents and businesses are now being asked to share their opinions about potential uses of the site.

Peel Ports has published its vision for Hunterston and how it intends to develop the site over the next 20 years. The details are contained in a Master Plan, published last week at the beginning of a six-week consultation process.

Andrew Hemphill, Port Director, Peel Ports Clydeport said: “No other single site in the UK offers Hunterston’s unrivalled combination of deep-water, extensive land area and transport links. This historic industrial site has the potential to transform Scotland’s prospects in a variety of key economic sectors, providing jobs, skills development, import and export opportunities for decades to come.

“The intended benefits that we have set out can only be achieved with the input of the local community, public sector agencies and commercial partners.”

Kenneth Gibson, MSP for Cunninghame North, said: “Our young people need opportunities for high-quality, skilled jobs and I am determined to see those brought to Hunterston. It is a prime site for investment in infrastructure and attracting new companies that will provide such roles.

“Developing the site is also a one-in-a-generation chance for the region to lead the way with innovative and sustainable industries, potentially in the circular economy or renewable energy. One thing is for sure is that we much create a new future for employment in the region otherwise we will continue to see a drain of talent to Glasgow and beyond. I urge everyone with an interest in the health of North Ayrshire to read the masterplan and get involved in the debate.”

Peel Ports has already worked with North Ayrshire Council, Scottish Government, Scottish Enterprise and many businesses in preparing the Master Plan and is now consulting with the public and others stakeholders about the next steps.

Karen Yeomans, Executive Director of Economy & Communities at North Ayrshire Council, said: “This is exciting news and I’m delighted to see the Masterplan unveiled to help unlock the vast potential held by the Hunterston site. We want North Ayrshire to be a vibrant, outward-looking and confident region that is an even better place to live for our communities and attractive to both investors and visitors, and these proposals will play a significant part of achieving that ambition.”