Port of Inverness backs bid to create free trade zone in the Cromarty Firth
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The Port of Inverness has joined a steering group to establish one of up to 10 free trade zones planned by the UK government.
As well as the Port of Cromarty Firth (PoCF) other members of the Opportunity Cromarty Firth group include the Global Energy Group and Highland Council.
If successful backers anticipate a Cromarty Firth free trade zone would attract considerable inward investment, providing skilled jobs for the next 50 years.
Sinclair Browne, chief executive of Port of Inverness, said: “We are delighted to be joining the steering group of this innovative bid to stimulate economic development and consolidate our existing skills and strengths into a centre of excellence for the renewable energy technologies of the future.
“The plans would benefit the area as a whole and it is very fitting for the Highland capital to be involved.
"With our excellent facilities, Port of Inverness has built up considerable experience of the renewable energy sector over recent years. We look forward to the opportunities a focus on a green economy will bring to the area.”
PoCF chief executive Bob Buskie believes the Cromarty Firth has some unique advantages over other areas, with 15 of the 17 sites identified in the draft Marine Plan for offshore wind development on its doorstep.
“We are delighted that Port of Inverness has joined the Opportunity Cromarty Firth steering group,” he said.
“Together, along with our fellow partners from industry, academia and the public sector, we will drive forward the case for a free trade zone that will have huge positive benefits for the region and safeguard sustainable and quality jobs in the Highlands.”
Other organisations backing the initiative include Highlands and Islands Enterprise and the University of the Highlands and Islands.
Related article: Cromarty Firth Free Trade port plan 'could secure jobs for 50 years'
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