A new centre costing £12.5 million was opened in Bellshill last week by Alex Salmond. The centre is intended to develop next-generation offshore wind technology.

Gamesa chose the site at Strathclyde Business Park to house its Offshore Wind Technology Centre, and has already recruited 40 engineers. The Spanish company aims to recruit over 100 staff by the end of 2011, rising to 180 within 3 years.

Gamesa Chairman and CEO Jorge Calvet said "Our Offshore Wind Technology Centre represents an important step in this strategy and our offshore plans could generate significant local, skilled and sustainable jobs over the coming years."

Alex Salmond said at the opening "This is a strong endorsement of our workforce and of the level of skills and expertise that we can offer."

In other business news, Eterniti Steels has agreed a deal with Almondvale Investments to remain in Mossend for a further 10 years.