Parliamentarians from across the political divide in Scotland have united to support the North East Scotland Green Freeport bid.
The backing comes as the consortium leading the plan submitted its vision to the UK and Scottish governments today.
MPs and MSPs pledged to campaign in the weeks ahead to ensure the region is first in line for the investment.
North East Scotland Green Freeport is a consortium consisting of Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeenshire Council, Port of Aberdeen, Peterhead Port Authority and Aberdeen International Airport.
It is also supported by a wide range of regional organisations, including the Energy Transition Zone, Net Zero Technology Centre, Storegga, Opportunity North East, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce, Robert Gordon University and University of Aberdeen.
Aberdeen International Airport group head of capital and planning Jon Matthews said: “We are delighted to have cross-party support and we are urging politicians of both parliaments to make the strongest case possible to the respective governments.
“The North East Scotland Green Freeport bid is a real opportunity to establish our region as the Net Zero Capital of Europe.
“It will deliver a sustainable economic future for the region with 32,000 fair-work long-term jobs.
“The strength of our bid lies not only in our net zero and global export ambitions, but in the strong collaboration we have here, built on world class foundations.
“In addition to our international airport – the most connected regional airport in the UK – and two major marine ports with combined goods exports of over £1bn in 2021, we have cross-party support from an array of stakeholders, private sector and academia.
“We can really harness the team-North East approach to deliver a prosperous new chapter in our industrial story, with far-reaching benefits.”
Scottish Conservative Shadow Secretary for Net Zero, Energy and Transport and North East MSP Liam Kerr said: “I fully support the North East Scotland Green Freeport bid which would be transformational for our region.
“Securing freeport status in the North East would potentially create up to 32,000 jobs while generating billions of pounds for our economy and leading our transition to net zero.
“Aberdeen, from its expanded port to its airport and Peterhead, including its port and St Fergus, are ideally placed for a revolutionary freeport development.
“I regularly meet with the consortium and commend the group on their fantastic work in preparing such an excellent bid.”
SNP MP for Gordon Richard Thomson said: “Having made the case through the passage of the legislation at Westminster for a green freeport model, I very much welcome this North East bid which can help meet Scotland’s net zero ambitions, supports the local economy, and also upholds high standards of environmental protections and fair work practices.
“It is clear there is support from businesses for green freeports and I look forward to the North East bid progressing.”
Conservative MP for Banff and Buchan David Duguid said: “I am delighted back the consortium’s bid for a freeport in the North East.
“I have regularly met with Peterhead Port Authority who have worked over several years to ensure our town was part of this fantastic bid.
“A freeport would bring unprecedented benefits to Peterhead, which is why this is a truly exciting moment for our area.
“Peterhead has a great future and has a lot to offer, from our bustling port and fish market to the Acorn CCS and Hydrogen Project at St Fergus, and key energy infrastructure sites around the power station.
“The consortium deserves huge praise for preparing such an excellent bid for the North East.”
Conservative MP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine Andrew Bowie said: “The North East Scotland Green Freeport bid underlines the great economic boost that awaits the North East if successful.
“We have heard the potential for tens of thousands of jobs to emanate from this exciting project, into every corner of the region.
“Partners including Aberdeen International Airport have done a power of work to present a compelling, mature prospectus.
“Now that there is the political will recognising the many opportunities presented by freeports, it’s time for both Scotland’s governments to press on with taking advantage.”