The Scottish Affairs Committee has today been discussing the implementation of the Borderlands Growth Deal as part of an inquiry into Growth Deals across Scotland.
The Committee heard from Councillors involved in Growth Deals across Scotland, including Dumfries & Galloway Councillor Gail MacGregor, as well as the Secretary of State for Scotland, David Mundell MP and the newly appointed Minister for Connectivity, Paul Wheelhouse MSP.
During the meeting, the Committee heard that the aim was to have an agreement which outlined what the growth deal will focus on by September 2018. The Committee also heard that all parties involved thought that the UK and Scottish Governments were working well to develop Borderlands.
Speaking afterwards John said he was “encouraged” by the enthusiasm he heard about the Borderlands Growth Deal and is looking forward to business cases being published later-on in the year.
John Lamont MP, said: “Borderlands represents a massive opportunity for the Borders.
“For too long, both English and Scottish agencies have seen the Border as some insurmountable barrier. Borderlands gives us the opportunity to push forward some real joined up thinking across the whole region, which will be a huge boost for local businesses, local jobs and connectivity.
“While Borderlands certainly has some challenges because it brings together five councils from either side of the Border, we also have the added advantage of being able to learn lessons from other growth deals.
“I was really encouraged by what the Committee heard today. Those involved in Borderlands are really upbeat about the progress being made. Given the number of people who turned up to the recent Borderlands conference in Dumfries, it’s clear that businesses are similarly upbeat.”