Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce chief executive Alan Mitchell has said there will be ups and downs over the difficult next 12 to 18 months, but that the economy of Dundee and Angus will continue to grow.
He said, “It is positive that unemployment has fallen again in Scotland, but we know there will be an impact on employment as public sector cutbacks work their way through the system.
“But the private sector is more than capable of creating new jobs.”
Mr Mitchell said there will be ups and downs as the country comes out of recession but there are grounds for optimism.
He said, “There continues to be private sector growth and exchange rates continue to create a favourable environment in which manufacturing and exports can benefit.
“Dundee and Angus still has a strong and diverse manufacturing and engineering sector and there is no reason why it can not benefit from the growth continuing.”
Mr Mitchell repeated the chamber’s support for the proposed biomass plant at Dundee harbour, plans for which are about to enter an important phase with the city council deciding its position on the development next week.
Supporters say it would signify Dundee wants a future in the renewable energy industry and point out it will provide employment for 300 people during construction, 40 once operational and 20 at the port.
Mr Mitchell said, “We view the biomass plant as a positive development and we would welcome the investment in the city of something we hope will have a long-term future.
“We are aware of the local sensitivities around this issue but we are confident that the planning process will do its job.”
He added, “It would be a good investment for the city and we want to see investment because that is how to grow the economy.”