Green light for Aberdeen SeedPod project

Planning approval has been given for the creation of a SeedPod hub on the outskirts of Aberdeen for the food and drink industry.

Led by Opportunity North East, it is claimed that SeedPod will put the region’s businesses at the forefront of innovation, productivity and sustainability, increasing high-value exports and creating new jobs. It will drive green economic recovery, low-carbon food production and contribute to net-zero goals.

The £21M investment – backed by the Aberdeen City Deal and funders the UK Government, Scottish Government and Opportunity North East – will create the go-to centre of excellence that will deliver the industry’s regional and national growth ambitions.

Patrick Machray OBE, Vice-Chair of Opportunity North East, said: “The project partners are delighted that SeedPod has received the necessary planning approval so that we can proceed at pace with final procurement and construction.

“Food and drink is the UK’s largest manufacturing sector, turns over £2.2bn in north east Scotland every year and already provides more than 22,000 jobs in the region. It is our largest industry after energy. Its growth is critical to our economic future as it can deliver more and higher-value jobs, increase exports of premium products to high-margin markets and play a key role in the drive to a low-carbon economy.”

Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Economy Kate Forbes said: “The Scottish Government is a full partner in the Aberdeen City Region City Deal, contributing £125M over 10 years. The investment in this project through the Deal will contribute to the region’s economic recovery by creating jobs, and providing the commercial infrastructure to support and attract businesses to Aberdeen and the surrounding areas.

“Projects like SeedPod highlight the importance of this Deal and demonstrates the ability to provide support to the north east Scotland food and drink industry and diversify the regional economy.”

SeedPod is due to open in 2022.