Hammond’s spring statement delivers £260m for the Borders
13 Mar 2019
The Borders will benefit from £260 million of UK Government investment, it has been confirmed by Chancellor Philip Hammond.
As part of today’s spring statement, he said the money would arrive as part of the Borderlands Growth Deal.
Scottish Conservative MSPs and MPs across the south of Scotland have welcomed the news.
The deal is the latest in a string of agreements for towns, cities and regions across Scotland aimed at boosting economic growth.
Scottish Conservative MSP for Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire Rachael Hamilton said:
“This shows what can be achieved when both of Scotland’s governments work together.
“The integral economic and social links between Northumberland and the Borders are vitally important, and this deal solidifies these further.
“This is another Scottish Conservative manifesto commitment delivered, and this deal has the ability to bring transformational change to the Scottish Borders, a region that has its own unique challenges but massive potential.
“I am looking forward to the deal progressing further and for lasting and positive changes to come about as projects come to fruition.”
Scottish Conservative MP for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk John Lamont said:
“Borderlands has huge potential for the Scottish Borders and I am pleased that it will be backed by £260m of UK Government money.
“Every pound spent in this growth deal helps the entire region.
“The SNP may not like it, but the truth is the border is just a line on the map and the economic health of the Scottish Borders is closely linked to the health of Northumberland, Carlisle and Cumbria.”
Scottish Conservative MSP for Dumfriesshire Oliver Mundell said:
“This package of economic stimulus represents the most comprehensive government intervention in our borderlands since devolution.
“Every penny spent on both sides of the border will bring real benefit to businesses and families based in Southern Scotland.
“It will strengthen cross-border links and it means that yet another key Scottish Conservative manifesto pledge has been delivered.”