The 9CC Group are looking seriously at financing the new-build of Industrial units located on vacant brownfield sites within our former coalfield communities of the Cumnock & Doon Valley.

The learning exchange allowed us to explore justification of NEED and Evidence of DEMAND required prior to the 9CC Group progressing with any investment into the new-build of industrial units. The building of Business units on former Coalfield sites seems to be a very successful model particularly when multiple partners and multiple funding streams are available and accessible.
Bothy the 9CCG and Coalfields Regeneration Trust have agreed to pursue this partnership approach and will submit a funding bid to UK Government’s Local Growth Fund for financial assistance towards this project. The 9CCG will seek approval from our Board to direct funds from our Strategic Area Fund into this project also.

2. The 9CC Group learned what Economic and Social values would be increased.
Inward Investment would be £4M+
Regenerate a former vacant brownfield site X 1
39,000 Sq Feet to be re-used

3. What types of Business Start-ups will be using this facility
Preferential rates will be offered to Young People residing in our former coalfield communities for business start up premises

Learning Outcomes

1. Justification of NEED and Evidence of DEMAND would all be required prior to the 9CC Group progressing with any investment into the new-build of industrial units
–  Is this major project affordable
– The strength of any potential; partnership with CRT

2. The 9CC Group need to know what Economic and Social values would be increased.
– how many jobs created / supported
– how many acres of vacant brownfield land to be re-used and regenerate
– how much inward investment this will bring
– investing in brownfield site making PLACE more attractive
– Can we support more Young People into jobs

3. What types of Business Start-ups will be using this facility
– Can we encourage more social enterprises
– Can we encourage and support more women to start up their own enterprises
– Can we support more Young People to start up their own enterprises

"As a result of the exchange, we now have a proactive agreement in place to proceed with this project. CRT management staff will present at the next 9CC Board meeting to submit a joint funding application to the Local growth Fund, further site visits on location for new-builds in East Ayrshire and agree terms of reference for our Partnership Agreement."