Scottish Borders innovation park underway

Work has begun on a new business park which will provide a major economic boost to the Scottish Borders and has the potential to create over 380 jobs.

Ogilvie Construction is building the ambitious Borders Innovation Park in Tweedbank, which will see four sites developed initially as part of the first phase.

The £29M development aims to deliver much needed high quality business space in the Borders, stimulate business growth and improve inward investment opportunities.

As well as predictions that the new park will help create over 380 jobs, it is estimated it will generate Gross Added Value (GVA) of £350M over 30 years and offer a £16 return for every £1 spent.

The Borders Innovation Park is a key component of the Tweedbank Masterplan, a transformational prospectus which has the potential to create over 1,400 jobs across various sectors. It includes a number of ambitious ideas to encourage people to live, learn, visit and work in the Borders, as well as attract inward investment through public and private sector funding.

Councillor Mark Rowley, SBC’s Executive Member for Business and Economic Development, said: “We have experienced one of the most testing periods of time in living memory, with the local economy in the Borders being significantly impacted.

“As a result, seeing a major development such as the Borders Innovation Park now get underway is hugely welcome news. The Council recognises the potential of the Borders Railway for transforming our area’s economy by bringing new workers, homeowners, businesses and visitors to the region.”

Donald MacDonald, Managing Director Ogilvie Construction, said: ”We are delighted to start construction work in line with Scottish Government guidelines. We look forward to handing over a first-class facility which is built to the highest standards and will play such a significant role in economic development for the Borders.”

The Borders Innovation Park is being funded by Scottish Borders Council, Scottish Enterprise and the Borders Railway Blueprint programme, as well as a £15M investment secured from the Edinburgh and South East Region City Deal.