PROPOSALS for a new speculative industrial development in Rosyth have moved forward with the submission of a planning application.

Scarborough Muir Group (SMG) has lodged a detailed planning application to Fife Council for the development of a 50,000 square foot unit at Queensferry One, a major new industrial and logistics development situated at the heart of the proposed Forth Green Freeport.

Designed by Glasgow-based architects Entasis, the proposed scheme can be subdivided into two 25,000 sq ft units with separate yards and entrances, and will be suitable for a range of storage, distribution and manufacturing uses.

Located on a 4.8-acre plot on the 120-acre development, the balance of the site is capable of accommodating an additional 40,000 sq ft unit as a second phase.

While the unit is being developed speculatively, it is expected to create around 50 full- and part-time jobs, with additional jobs created during the construction phase.

SMG aims to start on site by early- to mid-2023 with the space available for occupation by the end of next year subject to planning.

William McAlister, of SMG, said: “We are thrilled to have submitted our planning application for this high-quality industrial and logistics scheme, which will secure the redevelopment and reuse of a former brownfield site, and we look forward to working with Fife Council to secure consent to allow construction to commence as soon as possible.

“Our decision to speculatively develop this scheme is in direct response to strong demand from occupiers for immediately-available space and the proposed scheme will deliver much-needed quality industrial and logistics accommodation which, in turn, will provide economic benefits by creating new jobs accessible to the local community.”

Mr McAlister said there was already interest in the site.

"Owing to its connectivity, deliverability and established reputation as the beating heart of central Scotland’s engineering and marine cluster, Queensferry One is becoming an increasingly-attractive proposition to organisations in the renewable energy, marine, manufacturing or logistics industries," he said.

"In fact, we’re already in advanced discussions with multiple businesses looking to relocate to the area in anticipation of it being awarded Green Freeport status.”

SMG is a joint venture between UK real estate company Scarborough Group International and Inverkeithing-based contractor and developer Muir Group.

A potential £1 billion of investment could be delivered within Rosyth and Burntisland – with the creation of an estimated 7,000 new direct green jobs – if the business case for a green freeport at Rosyth from Babcock International, Forth Ports Group and the Scarborough Muir Group is approved.