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

Corridor of Uncertainty

By David Blackman | 19 February 2025

Confirmed during the chancellor’s recent announcement, the latest revival of the Oxford to Cambridgeshire arc brings the promise of growth and new homes. But...

ECONOMIC GROWTH

AI Opportunities Action Plan: How local authorities can lead the way

By Anja Beriro | 16 February 2025

The Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan doesn’t mention local government once – but Anja Beriro says there is plenty within its contents that should gi...

ECONOMIC GROWTH

A new way forward for UK councils on the climate emergency

By Miles Ashton | 06 February 2025

Within the context of increasing pressure on PWLB funding, councils need mechanisms like Local Climate Bonds to galvanise community action, says Miles Ashton

ECONOMIC GROWTH

Inspiring others to think big

By Cllr Mark Hunter | 23 January 2025

Stockport MBC’s ‘One Team’ ethos helped secure the Senior Leadership Team Award at The MJ Awards 2024. Cllr Mark Hunter sets out what’s being delivered for r...

Popular articles by Laura Sharman