Almost 50 companies have expressed an interest in setting up bases along Aberdeenshire’s Energetica corridor.
The planned 30-mile development stretching from Bridge of Don north to Peterhead and west to Aberdeen International Airport (AIA) is being promoted as a base for businesses, organisations and research institutions with links to the energy industry.
Aberdeenshire Council has revealed 47 firms from a range of sectors, including energy and engineering, have inquired about joining the project, which is forecast to attract £750million of investment in its first 10 years.
The local authority was unable to confirm how many had committed to moving in.
A north-east councillor has said serious investment will have to be poured into roads and other local infrastructure before businesses look seriously at the prospect.
Alan Buchan, who represents Peterhead North and Rattray, said: “How many of the 47 companies will actually come here with the present road, rail and internet links?
“Firms need all these things if they are to compete in a global market.
“The Scottish Government has spent £700million knocking two minutes off train journey times in the central belt, when a fraction of that would transform the infrastructure here.
“Getting to Aberdeen and the airport from Peterhead and Fraserburgh is difficult. If a prospective business owner gets stuck behind a lorry on the single-carriage road, that will put them off moving to the area.”
Energetica programme director, Derek McCrindle, said the figures showed the project had “gained momentum.”
He said: “The programme is about showcasing the north-east as a world-class development opportunity, capitalising on natural resources and existing infrastructure to attract business, investment and skilled individuals.
“I am very pleased with the positive number of enquiries and from companies showing an interest in moving their business into the corridor, which shows how much the programme has gained momentum.”