Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes has revealed that 82 enquiries have come from potential investors through the Project Willow initiative set up to find new jobs following closure of the Grangemouth oil refinery.

Her announcement came as she unveiled a £2.2 million investment through Scottish Enterprise in agricultural chemicals company Syngenta, supporting the company’s £14.7m expansion plans in the area.

Syngenta, which employs more than 370 people at Grangemouth, specialises in crop protection and seed breeding for the agriculture sector.

Its site expansion will create a dedicated manufacturing facility for its Seedcare product range, which helps growers safeguard high-value seeds against disease, pests and other environmental stresses.

The project and investment were secured for Scotland following competition with other international locations.

Ms Forbes said: “Syngenta’s expansion at Grangemouth is great news and I am grateful to the company for its significant contribution to the Grangemouth Future Industry Board.

“I am proud of the investment we are able to make through Scottish Enterprise, as part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to shaping a sustainable future for the chemicals sector.

“This reflects our vision for Grangemouth, in encouraging innovative companies to choose the industrial complex for access to a skilled workforce and established infrastructure.”

Jane Martin, Scottish Enterprise managing director for innovation and investment, added: “This latest project from Syngenta is a fantastic example of the type of ambitious, world-leading specialty chemicals innovation we want to see happening here at Grangemouth.

“The entire industrial cluster has a vital role to play in Scotland’s economic future and, in addition to attracting new investment to the site, we’re working closely with companies already based here to ensure Grangemouth remains the best place for them to grow, innovate and contribute to a more sustainable future.”

Pete Waddington, Head of UK Manufacturing at Syngenta, said: “Grangemouth is an important strategic location for Syngenta, and we are keen to further invest into new facilities at the site.

The specialty chemical cluster is also an asset for Scotland with a skilled workforce, strong logistics position, and proven track record of delivery. Syngenta is delighted to be working with Scottish Enterprise and the Scottish Government to further strengthen our site and the wider cluster.”

Liz Cameron, chief executive of Scottish Chambers of Commerce, visited the site yesterday and had discussions with the management about the challenges and opportunities facing the future of specialist chemical manufacturing.

“My message to both governments – speed and urgency paramount,” said Ms Cameron in a post on social media.

“We must realise this asset for Scotland, be bold , and do what is necessary to make this happen.”