Annual report published highlighting progress in a range of projects including the Edinburgh Food & Drink Innovation Hub at QMU.
The Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal has published its latest annual report, highlighting progress across a diverse range of projects, from robotics and data skills, to housing and intensive family support.
Out of a total 23 projects, 21 are in the implementation or delivery phase. This includes the start of junction works for the Edinburgh Food and Drink Innovation hub at Queen Margaret University in East Lothian, and the completion of construction on the National Robotarium at Heriot-Watt University in West Lothian.
In 2021-2022, £58.1m of government investment was spent on approved projects, bringing total UK and Scottish government investment since the deal was signed in 2018 up to £226m. This has enabled a range of projects to progress such as construction beginning at Granton Waterfront of 75 net zero carbon homes and the completion of 350 mid-market rental homes through Edinburgh Living.
The City Region Deal's skills and employability projects improved the skills of 18,000 people and helped 260 people into work, while £82,000 of Data Skills Credits were awarded, benefiting 264 learners.
This year’s annual report features a series of short videos, showcasing the diverse and innovative initiatives supported by the City Region Deal, highlighting the people and organisations behind the projects, their delivery partners across the region, and those who are benefiting.
Cllr Russell Imrie, Convener of the Deal’s Joint Committee, said, "It is now four years since the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal was signed, and we continue to make excellent progress in delivering the £1.4 billion programme in a partnership that includes six local authorities, four universities, six colleges and the Regional Enterprise Council – made up of business, social enterprise and third sector representatives.
“I’d encourage anyone who wants to know more about how the Deal is delivering benefits to different groups and sectors across the City Region to watch the short videos.”