Development of a new marine technology park near Clydebank are set to get back underway following delays brought on by the Coronavirus pandemic.

And manufacturing firm the Malin Group say the Scottish Marine Technology Park (SMTP) on the banks of Old Kilpatrick will generate millions of pounds and hundreds of jobs to the local economy once completed.

On the Glasgow-based company's website, they state that the SMTP will "include a large fabrication facility and a deep-water jetty with a 1,100 tonne ship hoist – the largest of its kind in Europe."

They also quote from a report conducted by land development and infrastructure consultancy Stantec, that estimated the SMTP would generate £125.4 million annually for the local economy, while the construction phase would create more than 600 additional short-term jobs.

And, speaking exclusively to the Post, a Malin Group spokesperson revealed the plans are beginning to progress once again.

They said: "Progress on site was delayed during the Covid pandemic but momentum is picking up again with remediation and design work progressing at pace.

"The current priority is to get the site “development ready” and to make it an attractive proposition for investors/occupants.

"It is expected that the real job creation will come once construction of the Park begins in 2023, however Malin do already employ a number of local firms and national firms with a local base to support planning and design work.

"They also recently hired a new senior project manager for the site and are recruiting for an additional dedicated project management role.

"Upcoming tenders include for the construction of a flood compensatory storage basin and for a designer for a new deep water quay facility."

Malin admit they have faced challenges with the site due to its previous use as an oil depot as well as damage caused to the depot during World War II.

And they say they plan to put in an application for Planning Permission in Principle (PPiP) for development of the entire site later this year.

The added: "Malin recently held a Pre-Application Public Consultation event for the PPiP at Old Kilpatrick Bowling Parish Church Hall showcasing outline plans for the park which was well received by those who attended.

"Lastly, Malin have also been discussing with a range of potential developers / occupiers / partners, who may each work with them in the next stages of development – this includes others within the supply chain of the marine industry, as well as research and innovation partners."