AN SNP MSP has urged people in North Ayrshire to “get involved in the debate” that is certain to be caused by the plan to develop the Hunterston terminal site in North Ayrshire.
Up to 1700 jobs could be created at Hunterston Port and Resource Centre (Parc), says owner Peel Ports, but there are signs of an environmentalist backlash against the development on a 300-acre site which was originally an iron ore ship terminal but lately was being used for testing wind turbines.
Planning permission has already been granted by North Ayrshire Council for the decommissioning of oil rigs at Hunterston. The council, the Scottish Government,
Scottish Enterprise, local businesses and Peel have developed a masterplan which is now out for consultation.
Potential uses set out in the master plan include using the the site for rig decommissioning or as a liquid natural gas terminal, or a train manufacturing plant. A plastics recycling and storage facility is also under consideration.
Local MSP Kenneth Gibson, added: “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 once-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 must 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.”
Andrew Hemphill, port director at 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. That will help us to create a final version that reflects the shared ambitions of the people who live, work and invest in North Ayrshire.”
Friends of the Forth of Clyde’s Caroline de Jong told the BBC news website: “We would like any development to take into account the full impact of the economic development, the social impact and the environmental impact and previous proposals by Peel Ports have failed to address the environmental and social impact.
“This project is of enormous proportion with high degrees of complexity and the coastline around this area is particularly sensitive.
“It is designated a protected site of scientific special interest, due to its protected marine species.”
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