According to the Scotsman, developers have submitted blueprints for an International Business Gateway next to Edinburgh Airport, stretching from the RBS headquarters at Gogarburn to the Royal Highland Showground at Ingliston, that will become an “extension to the city of Edinburgh”.

First suggested in 2011, the business-friendly zone has been valued at £310 million, with the potential to pump £4.4 billion into the Scottish economy and create 3600 jobs.

A new tram stop is set to be built as part of the development, which aims to create a 24/7 neighbourhood with a thriving community life long after office workers head home.

New artist’s impressions released by developers reveal how the land – currently empty fields around Gogarburn – could one day be home to gleaming, modern office blocks and apartments.

If an initial request for planning approval is accepted, full details will be submitted in the first half of this year.

The scheme is being proposed by a partnership of four different companies, including New Ingliston Limited, the firm that originally purchased the majority of the site in 1988 with the aim of developing the area.

A spokesman for New Ingliston said: “This is an exceptionally important and strategic development for Edinburgh.

“The provision of the tram makes for a unique place of the highest quality that is truly linked in to Edinburgh and will function as a 24/7 extension to the city.

“The balance of business, residential and leisure accommodation will undoubtedly create a community of merit.”