The prospect of seizing the "once in a lifetime opportunity" that renewable energy offers Dundee has been highlighted by the city's leaders.

Representatives of the public, private and academic sectors gathered at the Apex Hotel under the Dundee Partnership banner to find out what part they can play in making the vision a reality.

Chair of the Dundee Partnership Forum and leader of Dundee City Council Cllr Ken Guild said: "We talked about the exciting prospect of seizing the once in a lifetime opportunity offered through the development of renewable energy.

"Make no mistake, this is a chance for us to transform the city's economy and secure the kinds of jobs and industries that we have craved for decades. Dundee is perfectly placed to take advantage of this.

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"But we can only achieve this by working together: the private and public sectors, businesses and communities, colleges and universities and local authorities across the region and beyond."

Work has been going on since early 2005 laying the foundations of a push for renewable energy jobs and investment, and last year the first official steps formalising the work were taken with the creation of Dundee Renewables.

Calling on the collective expertise of Dundee City Council, Scottish Enterprise and Forth Ports, and the support of other national agencies, the body has been making the case for the city at every available opportunity.

With a deep water port, development land, a skilled workforce and close proximity to the most recently approved offshore windfarms, Dundee is in prime position to benefit.

It is believed these advantages have led a number of major players in the field to make serious enquiries about the possibilities the city offers.

Cllr Guild concluded: "The kinds of businesses and organisations which have so much to contribute to helping make Dundee the renewables capital of Scotland were represented today (Wednesday) at what was a very productive meeting that I believe moves us towards our long term vision of a vibrant and prosperous city."

(GK/BMcC)