Boris Johnson to announce £300m growth deal investment on visit to Scotland

Boris Johnson - Image credit: PA

Boris Johnson will announce £300m of UK Government investment in regional growth deals as he visits Scotland today.

The new prime minister will reveal plans for new deals for Falkirk, the islands and Argyll and Bute, as well as completing a deal for Moray.

He will also announce further growth deals in Wales and Northern Ireland, ahead of future trips to the two countries.

On his Scottish visit, which will include a military base, Johnson will set out his vision to “renew the ties that bind” the four countries of the United Kingdom together.

He will also commit to working closely with the devolved administrations to roll the growth deals out to every region of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. 

Ahead of the trip, Johnson said: “Our Union is the most successful political and economic union in history.

“We are a global brand and together we are safer, stronger and more prosperous.

“So, as we prepare for our bright future after Brexit, it’s vital we renew the ties that bind our United Kingdom.

“I’m proud to be in Scotland today to make clear that I am a passionate believer in our great Union, and I look forward to visiting Wales and Northern Ireland to ensure that every decision I make as prime minister promotes and strengthens our union.”

Scottish Secretary Alister Jack said: “It’s really great news that the Prime Minister is committed to ensuring that every part of Scotland benefits from UK Government growth deals.

“This investment will enable us to build on the success of our existing growth deals, which are helping to create jobs and boost local economies right across Scotland.

“I have been closely involved with the new Borderlands Growth Deal, which is a fantastic example of the UK Government working with partners to address local needs.

“The UK Government has already committed more than £1.39 billion to city region and growth deals in Scotland.  

“Eight are already in place and work to finalise a ninth in Moray is underway.”‎

Growth deals were set up, to provide additional funding for infrastructure and economic development to regions, with funding from both the UK and Scottish governments as well as local authorities and the private.

The first such agreement in Scotland was the Glasgow City Region Deal in 2014.