A GROWTH deal for Ayrshire continued to make progress as members of the team behind it met with MSPs and Business Secretary Greg Clark.

The Ayrshire Growth Deal team, along with South of Scotland MSP Brian Whittle, held a lengthy meeting with the cabinet secretary to discuss the future for the county. The deal involves joint investment across the county by the councils, private investors, the UK and Scottish Governments and has the potential to transform the Ayrshire economy.

Speaking after the meeting, Brian Whittle MSP said: “The next big step for the project is for the Scottish Government to set out its contribution to the AGD in detail so the UK Government can know exactly what aspects of the deal it will be asked to support.

“Co-operation and communication will be key to making the Ayrshire Growth Deal a reality.”

Business secrtary Greg Clark added: “I was pleased to be able to meet up during my visit to Scotland and discuss the proposals for the Ayrshire Growth Deal in more detail. The Ayrshire Growth Deal represents an original and innovative new strategy to support economic growth.

"As the UK Government continues to build our industrial strategy, we are determined to spread growth across the country and ensure every area has the opportunity to meet its potential."