Scottish Enterprise Grampian has launched a feasibility study into the building of a new pulp mill in Scotland.


The news would be a welcome boost for the Scottish companies involved in the paper industry, especially in light of recent events at Donside Paper Company (PrintWeek, 15 December).


A spokeswoman for Scottish Enterprise Grampian said: "This is a pre-feasibility study to see if this is a viable project. We are looking for a suitable site and our findings will be reviewed at the end of March."


A mill would provide a boost for the Scottish economy as around 90% of the pulp used to make paper in the UK is imported. Forest products account for the third largest source of imports into the UK.


Inveresk managing director Stefan Kay said he would welcome the project and a local pulp supply.


Scotland has 10 paper mills, but only one pulp mill, near Irvine in Ayrshire, owned by Caledonian Paper.


The study will aim to prove that a pulp mill would be of benefit to the Scottish forestry and paper industries.


Scottish Enterprise Grampian chief executive Ed Gillespie, who has 30 years' experience in the paper industry, including a spell at Donside, is project director for the study.


Other key partners include Scottish Timber Task Force, Scottish Woodlands and Forest Enterprise, and the Forestry Commission.


Story by Andy Scott