The Moray growth deal will get the green light, Moray MP Douglas Ross has said following a meeting with the Chancellor.
Mr Ross met Chancellor Philip Hammond to discuss the deal after raising the Growth Deal at Treasury Questions.
The £200 million deal would fund several long-term projects designed to transform the economy, address concerns around encouraging young people to live and work in the area and address gender inequality in employment.
Proposals include a “cultural quarter” for Elgin encompassing Cooper Park, the Town Hall and Grant Lodge and a new gas pipeline to allow the towns businesses to expand.
Moray Council bosses met Scottish and UK government officials to thrash out the scope of the project and how much money will be needed in Edinburgh last month.
Now, Scottish Conservative MP Mr Ross said he is now confident the deal will go ahead after the “positive” meeting with the chancellor.
“Being able to champion Moray’s case directly with such senior politicians is an important element of my work as Moray’s MP and I’m pleased we could get round the table to discuss how this Growth Deal will make such a positive impact in Moray,” he said.
“Things are certainly moving forward with the Moray Growth Deal, which will be a huge boost to the area and which has significant local support.
“I’ve hosted Scotland Office Ministers in Moray and continually raised the importance of the Growth Deal with the Prime Minister and today’s meeting ensures Moray’s case continues to be made at the highest levels in Government.
“Moray badly needs this funding which would boost our local economy and provide great opportunities for our area and the people living and working here. After meeting The Chancellor today I am delighted by the progress we are making towards delivering the Moray Growth Deal.”
A survey of residents was launched in July to gauge interest and received more than 1,200 responses – an 83% backing.
The deal aims to make the region will an “ambitious” and “thriving” place to live with an “exceptional” quality of life by 2030.