ECONOMIC GROWTH

MSPs warn 'significant' issues with City Region Deals must be addressed

A number of concerns about Scotland’s City Region Deals have been raised today by a Holyrood committee.

A number of concerns about Scotland's City Region Deals have been raised today by a Holyrood committee.

In a new report, the Local Government and Communities Committee argued there were significant issues with the economic growth projects that must be addressed, including ‘confused and cluttered' priorities between local authorities and the governments.

Deal or No Deal also called for communities and businesses to be involved in City Region Deals in a meaningful way.

Committee convenor Bob Doris said: ‘While it's still very early days in the City Region Deals lifespan, it's not clear how other towns and the more rural and remote areas of Scotland will benefit from these deals.

‘There is also a risk that some parts of Scotland could miss out or lose out on the benefits that these projects may bring and that other initiatives are treated as the poor cousin in comparison.

'In order for City Region Deals to be a success right across Scotland we need clarity on when this initiative will be extended to all.'

ECONOMIC GROWTH

Evolution through devolution

By Neil Blagburn | 16 January 2025

The council-led delivery of the Northumberland Line could inspire local authorities to take the lead on major infrastructure development, says Neil Blagburn.

ECONOMIC GROWTH

HR must prepare for devolution discussions today

By Pam Parkes | 16 January 2025

HR must start planning to ensure it has the strategic OD and workforce capacity to deliver devolution in a way that transforms council services for the bette...

ECONOMIC GROWTH

Five factors for success in dealing with PFI expiry

By Caroline Mostowfi | 17 December 2024

A report shows many London boroughs are not yet prepared for the expiry of their private finance initiative (PFI) contracts. A spotlight on this issue is nee...

ECONOMIC GROWTH

Solace Scotland announces chair

By Martin Ford | 05 December 2024

Chief executive of North Lanarkshire Council, Des Murray, has been announced as the new chair of Solace Scotland.

Popular articles by Laura Sharman