SNP Europe Minister Stephen Gethins has voiced disappointment over the UK Government's decision to block a £1.5 billion offshore wind project at Ardersier, which would have created 1,500 jobs in Scotland. Writing in the Record, Gethins questioned the national security justification, noting that similar Chinese investment in infrastructure projects south of the border has been allowed.
Potential and Disappointment
Gethins recently visited the Port of Nigg in the Highlands, welcoming 180 new jobs in renewable energy. He stressed the region's potential for greener energy, job creation, and contributing to energy security for Scotland and Europe, especially amid wars in Ukraine and Iran.
He described the UK Government's veto as disappointing, given the project's scale and job potential. Gethins acknowledged that national security is of utmost importance but called for clarity on why this investment was blocked while similar investments elsewhere proceed.
Call for Reconsideration
First Minister John Swinney has asked new Prime Minister Andy Burnham to reconsider the decision. Gethins urged Burnham to look at the project again and work with the Scottish Government, industry, and local community to mitigate any security concerns, as has been done with other projects.
Gethins highlighted the Prime Minister's stated commitment to investment outside London, suggesting this is an opportunity to demonstrate that commitment. He challenged Burnham to visit Ardersier and engage with the community set to lose out on the investment and jobs.
The trade union GMB is also calling for a rethink. Gethins concluded that if the Prime Minister continues to block the project, people in the Highlands will question why similar investments are allowed elsewhere.
