NORTH Ayrshire aims to become Scotland’s ‘innovation hotspot’ in a bid to attract significant international investment and secure hundreds of new jobs.

At last week’s North Ayrshire Council’s Cabinet meeting, members debated a forward-thinking, ambitious International Strategy which focuses on targeting and attracting foreign investment and helping local businesses open up new markets across the globe.

Advisors Ernst and Young were asked to identify areas for improvement and the potential benefits of an International Strategy.

Their projections include: - An estimated 12,000 direct jobs created as a result of future foreign investment by 2030 - Further jobs anticipated in the local supply chain - A significant increase in the number of North Ayrshire companies exporting to the global market - Increase in the number of skilled, higher paying jobs Last year, the Council launched Team North Ayrshire in order to provide a single point of contact for businesses looking to grow.

The international strategy report identifies a number of strengths which support inward investment, growth and open opportunities for exporters. These include the i3 Enterprise Area in Irvine, North Ayrshire’s significant labour pool, proactive schools and colleges working to meet the needs of business and good transport links.

The council also recognises the need to develop support for businesses who have ambitions to grow and take advantage of export opportunities but often feel they are too small or inexperienced to do so.

The key actions identified in the International Strategy include: - Identification of current real estate which could be developed to attract investment.

- Continued development of i3 as the main strategic asset for supporting inward investment.

- Engagement with owners at Hunterston on ways to secure inward investment, including the potential for a renewables innovation hub.

- Investigation of avenues to build upon the world-leading research and development industries at Ardeer.

- Focus on sectors and industry which would bring both economic and commercial benefits, ensuring a mix of jobs in the area which still allow for a targeted approach.

Councillor Marie Burns, Cabinet Member for Economy and Employment, said: “The findings of Ernst and Young are both exciting and challenging.

"The chance to create so many jobs is opportunity which cannot be ignored.

“This will require significant investment to succeed.

"However, this must be weighed up against the potential for even greater benefits.

“By tackling issues from all sides we can make this a reality and truly become Scotland’s innovation hotspot.”