Funding to build a new £33million “aerospace centre of excellence” in Moray has been announced to drive jobs in the aviation sector.
The project, which will be built near RAF Lossiemouth, is the first to be confirmed as part of the growth deal for the region.
It is hoped that the Moray College centre will create “hundreds” of student places, provide more aviation and engineering opportunities and attract further business to the area.
Once complete, the Moray Aerospace, Advanced Technology and Innovation Campus will work with both the RAF and private partners to support the new fleet of Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
It is expected that more projects included in the funding package, which is receiving £32.5million from both the UK and Scottish governments, will be announced in the coming weeks.
Scotland Office minister Ian Stewart announced the funding following a tour of RAF Lossiemouth today.
He said: “Since the Moray deal was announced we have been working to make progress, and I am delighted to confirm the UK Government will invest £21 million in this college hub which will help the region prosper from its aerospace sector.
“There is a significant way to go to get our economy back on track after the coronavirus pandemic, but we know that the city and region growth deals will be crucial to Scotland’s economic recovery.”
The remaining £12.3million for the centre will be provided by local organisations.
