The number of business start-ups near Dundee’s waterfront development has been hailed as “very encouraging”.
The area was described by a business owner and a leading business figure as one with lots of promise as the city gears up for the opening of the V&A Museum.
In 2014, 49 businesses were launched in the area surrounding the current development. And, so far this year, 35 have already been set up at various spots.
In previous years, the number of businesses opening within the DD1 area which covers streets along the waterfront, as well as roads leading into the centre were at 36 in 2012 and 31 in 2013.
Kara Swankie, the owner of gift shop and art gallery Swankie Jo’s, started up her business five months ago.
The 19-year-old said: “I could have started up my business in the likes of Broughty Ferry or further into the city centre, but this area is certainly up and coming.
“I see this space as a long-term investment.
“There are already quite a number of people coming into the shop, but, as the completion of the waterfront gets closer, the footfall in this area will definitely increase.
“This area is not as busy as other areas in the city, but I am certain, in time, businesses on streets nearer the Waterfront will start to really benefit from the location.”
This year, businesses have been established in office, shop and warehouse space in Exchange Street, Victoria Road, Dock Street, City Quay and Commercial Street.
Tim Allan, the president of the Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce, said the confidence is encouraging.
Mr Allan added: “I had my predictions that business start-ups in the area would start to increase but this had exceeded those expectations.
“With 49 start-ups in 2014 and 35 already this year, with time left in the year for more businesses to move in, it is very encouraging news.
“I think it shows the belief that business owners have in the fantastic opportunities the completed waterfront will bring.”