The initiative, which also includes an expanded STEM-focused facility at the Gardyne campus, is expected to deliver up to £1.8 billion in regional benefits over 20 years.

The proposed 10-year transformation aims to revitalise city and town centres, deliver a more seamless model of employability and skills provision, and contribute significantly to economic regeneration, sustainability, and wellbeing across the region.

Members of the Dundee Business and Economic Forum, including leaders from Waracle, Blackadders LLP, Thorntons LLP, and the Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce, have formally written to First Minister John Swinney calling for full Scottish Government backing.

The letter describes the plan as “a golden opportunity to invest for the long term in a project which not only has universal support across the political and business communities, but will also have a genuinely transformational effect on our society”.

“This project isn’t just about buildings,” said one signatory. “It’s a blueprint for the future and a catalyst for sustainable growth, regeneration and prosperity for generations to come.”

An independent economic impact assessment by BiGGAR Economics estimates that the College’s £265 million investment would yield a 30% return, with £10 of benefit for every £1 spent.

The benefits include:

• £1.8bn in total economic impact over construction and 20 years of operation
• Human capital uplift worth £130m from improved qualifications, wages, and wellbeing
• Employment increases of up to 6,755 in Dundee and 1,362 in Angus
• £138m in construction-related impact
• Regeneration and footfall growth of 600–800 people per day in Dundee and 400–600 in Arbroath
• Significant environmental gains tied to net zero targets

The College’s vision involves relocating its Kingsway Campus in Dundee to a new site at the Wellgate, creating a vibrant green corridor linking the Murraygate and Hilltown. In Arbroath, plans are underway to bring the campus into the town centre, with the Abbeygate Shopping Centre among the options being considered.

The Gardyne Campus would see a major expansion, with a new purpose-built STEM facility covering construction, engineering, and science.

A cornerstone of the plan is the integration of employability services with learning, advice, and skills training. The new model would see agencies delivering public services co-located with education providers to offer coordinated support to individuals.

Simon Hewitt, principal of Dundee and Angus College, presented the vision at Civil Service Live in Glasgow, stating: “We always knew this project would have the potential to transform the region, but these figures go beyond our expectations. These are compelling benefits – economic, social, and environmental – and we’re determined to bring this vision to life as soon as possible.”

The College’s vision has attracted strong support from a wide range of stakeholders. Chris Martin of Waracle said: “These plans are perfectly placed to breathe much-needed economic life into Dundee and Arbroath.”

Entrepreneur David Hamilton, a former student, added: “It’s a no-brainer. I’m proud to support the College and its bold ambition.”

Negotiations are underway with both the Scottish and UK governments on funding packages, and at least two private investment vehicles have expressed interest in supporting the development. The design and construction of the new campuses will also align with the Scottish Government’s net zero goals, with accessible locations and support for active travel and green commuting.

Mr Hewitt concluded: “We want to give our students the best possible experience and, with it, the best possible chance of a better life in an improving community. Even with modest assumptions, the positive impact of these plans is overwhelmingly clear.”