Falkirk Council to discuss long-term future of Grangemouth Industrial Cluster
The ongoing efforts to support the long-term future of the Grangemouth Industrial Cluster will be considered by members at a full Council meeting later this month.
An update report sets out the significant challenges faced by the cluster and highlights the co-ordinated steps to support economic resilience, workforce transition and industrial transformation in the area.
The closure of the Petroineos Oil Refinery in Spring 2025 marks a major change for the local economy, with an estimated loss of around 400 jobs. However, 75 skilled roles are expected to be retained as the site is repurposed into a fuels import terminal.
In response, the Council has been working closely with partners such as Skills Development Scotland, Forth Valley College and the Department for Work and Pensions to support the affected workforce with dedicated training support now underway and being led by Forth Valley College.
The report also outlines the collaborative work of the Grangemouth Future Industries Board (GFIB), which includes representatives from Government, higher education, business, and trade unions. GFIB is leading the oversight of a Just Transition Plan that sets out a long-term vision for the cluster centred on sustainable industry, new technologies, job creation and community wellbeing.
Significant investment programmes, including the £100 million Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal, the Forth Green Freeport, and the Tax Incremental Finance (TIF) initiative, are key to future regeneration. Additional funding includes a £25 million Just Transition Fund from the Scottish Government and a £200 million allocation from the UK National Wealth Fund, supporting innovation, infrastructure and inward investment.
Initiatives such as Project Willow are also helping to shape a new industrial path, focusing on low-carbon technologies and carbon capture. Meanwhile, the Council is progressing the Grangemouth Spatial Vision and Masterplan, alongside the Greener Grangemouth initiative to ensure local communities are central to the town’s regeneration.
Malcolm Bennie, Director of Place Services said:
Grangemouth has long played a vital role in the Scottish economy, and while recent announcements have been difficult for many in the community, the Council is doing everything it can to ensure the area has a positive future.
“The report sets out the ongoing work by the Council and its partners to support the workforce and lay the foundations for a sustainable future. We are realistic about the scale of the challenge, but also confident in the strength of Grangemouth as a home for manufacturing. Key partners like the UK and Scottish Governments are working together on this ambition, with investment secured, and a number of opportunities for innovation.
“We are all committed to safeguarding jobs, attracting new industries, and ensuring that local people benefit from change. We look forward to updating Elected Members on the activity underway and hearing what other approaches they would like us to pursue.