2020/21 Annual Performance Report

The first annual report highlighting the achievements and progress of the Ayrshire Growth Deal has stressed that ‘better times are ahead’.

Since the Deal was confirmed at the end of 2020, which signalled the beginning of £250 million targeted investment into the region, partners have been working to develop projects that will generate jobs, prosperity and hope for Ayrshire.

It is expected that the Deal will spark further private investment of at least £300 million and generate 7,000 jobs over the next ten years.

Despite the many challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, the first annual report showcases some of the key achievements in the first year since the Deal was signed in November 2020.

These include:

• The low carbon Enterprise and Innovation Hub at the HALO Kilmarnock will open its doors to its first occupants in Spring 2022 and is AGD’s first tangible project
• The £3 million Community Wealth Building has moved into delivery and is providing support to businesses and creating a regional economy based on wellbeing and inclusion
• The £5 million ‘Working for a Healthy Economy’ project has also moved into delivery and is providing targeted interventions and coaching support to help those struggling to maintain secure and meaningful employment
• Glasgow Prestwick Airport (GPA) and Astraius (launch service provider) have entered commercial discussions and have engaged with Civil Aviation Authority to commence licensing process. Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between GPA, Astraius and South Ayrshire Council have been signed.
• Confirmation of site for CoRE – Community Renewable Energy –  project
• MOU has been signed between North Ayrshire Council, Peel Ports and Scottish Enterprise which will drive forward the short, medium and long-term plans for a key part of the Hunterston PARC site, which comprises the operational port areas.
• MoU signed between North Ayrshire Council, University of Strathclyde to help future proof key process manufacturing industries, such as pharmaceuticals, food and drink and chemical products
• Exciting and unprecedented collaboration with academia including University of Stirling, University of Glasgow, University of Strathclyde, Caledonian University, University of West of Scotland, Ayrshire College.

Over the coming months, it is expected that a number business cases will be approved –  ensuring projects are implemented.

The Working for a Healthy Economy project will focus on engaging further with businesses and employed residents who require support. It has already engaged with 167 unemployed people and has had a significant impact in improving mental health, wellbeing and helping people back into work.

Community Wealth Building Business Locality Officers have been successfully appointed and will engage with businesses – to ensure local firms play their part in ensuring employees are supported and have proper security – as part of the Fair Work Ayrshire element which commenced at the end of 2021. So far 87Ayrshire businesses have been supported.

Councillor Peter Henderson who is Chair of the Ayrshire Economic Joint Committee “The last year has been an extremely successful one and a lot of things have been put in place that will provide a platform for us to bring projects to fruition over the coming years.

“Perhaps the biggest positive in our first year since the Deal was confirmed is the number of partnerships with industry and academia that have been established. Having that level of expertise and skill is a massive asset and will ensure we are in a really strong position over the coming years.

“We are delighted to publish our first Annual Report and look forward to providing further updates over the coming months.

“As it says in the report, we are extremely confident that better times lie ahead for citizens, businesses and our communities across Ayrshire.”