THE site of Scotland’s last coal-fired power station is to steam into new life after councillors green-lit the creation of a train factory.
The Talgo plant at Longannet in Fife will bring 1000 jobs to the area, it is claimed.
Scottish Power is still working to demolish its infrastructure there after the power station shut three years ago.
Yesterday Fife Council said the 80,000sqm facility would be of national importance with recruitment is expected to start in 2023. Council co-leader David Ross said: “The Longannet site is nationally significant and critically important locally.
“The planning permission granted today marks a significant step forward in the journey towards creating new employment and economic opportunities in the Kincardine area and beyond.
READ MORE: Spanish train maker Talgo may bring 1000 jobs to Fife
“This latest milestone builds upon the work of the Longannet Taskforce, whose focus has been to support the wider regeneration of the area following the power station’s closure in 2016. We now look forward to showcasing the site to ensure that this location, which has driven past industrial revolutions, will once again be a catalyst towards business activity that drives a renewed innovation-led economy.”
It is hoped the Talgo investment will support a further 5000 jobs in the region.
Jon Veitch of Talgo UK said the company is eyeing “growing markets” in Europe.
Transport Secretary Michael Matheson called the planning decision “a significant milestone” for Scotland’s partnership with the Spanish firm. He commented: “It both moves us closer to the creation of 1,000 high quality, highly skilled jobs and demonstrates what Scotland can and will do for companies who share our vision of Scotland as the place to invent and build the future – and their own future workforce.
“Talgo’s commitment to Scotland will bring a fantastic industrial asset back into use, anchoring communities and supply chains across Scotland and the UK.
“We look forward to working with the company on establishing roots in Longannet.”
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