Plans to invest significantly in an art school expansion in the Moray region have been unveiled.

Over the next four years, the Glasgow School of Art (GSA), along with the Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), will invest up to £10m in the initiative.

The two organisations are already partners in GSA's Institute of Design Innovation (InDI), which was established in 2010 at the Enterprise Park, Forres. It is understood it is this model they plan to build on within the new campus, to create a wide-ranging programme, providing opportunities for students and helping to deliver HIE's economic and community development priorities.

The scheme will support around 20 new jobs, as well as sustaining 10 existing jobs to deliver the new research and teaching programmes and services to businesses, social enterprises and communities throughout the region.

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Speaking ahead of a visit to the existing GSA site in Forres, Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: "The Glasgow School of Art has an incredible international reputation, and this latest joint venture with Highlands and Islands Enterprise will build on an already successful partnership that has delivered employment and learning opportunities in the Highlands through the Institute of Design Innovation.

"It is particularly impressive that, despite the enormous challenges the GSA has faced after last year's fire, it is continuing to move forward with confidence. Working with HIE to commit such a large amount of funding to this expansion is a sure sign of a strong future."

Alex Paterson, Chief Executive, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, commented: "Universities make a huge contribution to the success of major economies throughout the world, and this expansion of the GSA's activities will deliver a number of valuable outcomes for our region.

"It also opens up opportunities for communities in our fragile areas to tap into the GSA's expertise to help develop creative ideas to improve rural resilience – for instance through developing traditional and cultural assets."

Professor Tom Inns, Director of the Glasgow School of Art, added: "The Glasgow School of Art is looking forward to developing its relationship with Highlands and Islands Enterprise through this new joint initiative.

"The new campus will build on the work that has been done through our Institute of Design Innovation in Forres, including the Digital Health Institute, and will open up further opportunities for students and businesses in the Highlands."

(JP/CD)