Boost for Prestwick businesses with enterprise area launch
18 January
Good news for Prestwick! The Scottish Government has announced Prestwick International is to be one of two to have new Enterprise Area status, bringing new initiatives to the area.
Prestwick International – together with Creative Clyde in Glasgow – will form one of the first Enterprise Areas in Scotland from April 2012, covering manufacturing and growth sector opportunities.
This means Prestwick International will benefit from specific incentives such as a possible reduction in business rates – the details of which have yet to be finalised – to encourage private investment at the site, which currently accommodates 12 companies in the Scottish aerospace industry.
Councillor Bill McIntosh, Leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: "This is a fantastic boost for Ayrshire and fully recognises the infrastructure, people and potential we have in our area to continue to grow the aerospace industry as it benefits from this new status.
"Improving access to employment and investment opportunities for people and businesses alike and stimulating economic growth are key commitments for our Council as we continue to work to become the best place for business, tourism and leisure. Enterprise Area status for Prestwick International will be an important factor in helping us achieve that.
"Enterprise Area status will confirm Prestwick International's place as the home of the Scottish aerospace industry and we look forward to getting to work with the other key partners involved to make this happen."
Glasgow Prestwick Airport's Chief Executive Iain Cochrane said: "We're delighted to be part of this important Scotland-wide initiative as aerospace is one of the UK's highest value-adding manufacturing sectors and is particularly important to Ayrshire. We look forward to playing our part in boosting the economic growth, both of Ayrshire and Scotland."
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