Scottish Conservative MSP for Lothian is backing plans by their party to invest money directly into the area through Community Investment Deals.
Jeremy Balfour MSP says the proposals unveiled by Scottish Conservative party leader Douglas Ross at the virtual conference will help boost job creation projects in Midlothian
The Deals backed by an initial £550 million will help to create skilled jobs and ensure that people won’t have to leave move away to find new opportunities.
Mr Balfour says the fund will help to rebuild Midlothian following the Covid pandemic, while in contrast the SNP continue to focus on another divisive independence referendum.
The plans would see communities bid for funding worth up to £25 million to help create growth opportunities and leverage additional investment from councils and local businesses.
Commenting, Scottish Conservative MSP Jeremy Balfour said:
“As we recover from the Covid pandemic, we must put rebuilding communities at the heart of everything we do.
“The Community Investment Deals plan from the Scottish Conservatives will bring direct investment to Midlothian and help create skilled job opportunities.
“This fund goes even further than the City Deals backed by both of Scotland’s Governments and ensures people won’t have to leave Midlothian for new opportunities.
“Rather than the SNP’s constant talk of another divisive independence referendum, the Scottish Conservatives are committed to rebuilding our communities through good local jobs.”
