Business Gateway, operated by West Dunbartonshire Council’s business support team, assisted 22.5 startups per 10,000 population – higher than the whole of Scotland average of 16.8.

The figure ranks the council fifth out of all 32 authorities.

The team also supported 130 businesses with grants to help them create local jobs, while 147 business received training grants and 78 received a start-up grant to begin their business.

Early-stage growth support was provided to 35 startups which had the potential to expand, and one to one support in business areas which require a high level of expertise was provided to 28 firms.

The details were relayed to members of the council’s infrastructure, regeneration and economic development committee today.

Councillor Iain McLaren, convener of the committee, said: “I welcome these figures which show West Dunbartonshire is a great place to be a start-up business. The support available to anyone interesting in launching a business here is second to none, and I’m encouraged to see Business Gateway helping more people year on year.

“It’s such an exciting time to be in business in West Dunbartonshire, with so much going on in terms of new developments and expansions of existing locations. It’s no surprise that so many people want to start their business here.”

Councillor Marie McNair, vice convener, added: “New businesses opening help improve our communities by creating jobs for local people, and attracting trade and further investment to the area.

“We have shown a firm commitment to offer support and advice to anybody who is interested in basing their business within West Dunbartonshire.”