Commenting after receiving a response from Treasury Minister Simon Clarke that the Heads of Terms for the Moray Growth Deal are due to be signed off later this month, Moray MP Douglas Ross said: “Despite earlier speculation that this could be delayed until the new year, this is a significant announcement for the Moray Growth Deal and follows confirmation of funding for the deal earlier in the year.
“While opposition parties speculated this next stage could be delayed because of Brexit, I’ve been working flat out with Ministers across Government to deliver the next phase of this ambitious and transformational deal for Moray.”
Responding to a question from Douglas in the House of Commons today (Tuesday), Mr Clarke said: “Douglas Ross has been a great champion for the growth deal and that will unlock huge benefits for the people of Moray. We hope to settle the Heads of Terms this month to allow the project to move forward quickly.”
Speaking after Treasury Questions, Douglas added: “As well as being the highest funded growth deal in the country per head of population, the response I received in the House of Commons shows that the Moray Growth Deal is a top priority for the UK and Scottish Governments.
“The Heads of Terms will now be signed off in a matter of weeks. This is great news for everyone who has championed the Moray Growth Deal and the local community who I know will benefit from this record investment in our area.”
Leader of the Conservative Group on Moray Council,Councillor Tim Eagle said: “It is fantastic news that the Heads of Terms document will be signed this month. This document commits the UK and Scottish Governments to work collaboratively with the local authority and other regional partners to deliver a deal which will no doubt transform the Moray economy. The UK Government and Douglas Ross MP have done everything possible to deliver an exceptional deal in an exceptional timeframe and I thank them for that. This announcement is very welcome news for us in Moray Council.”