Tayside and Fife’s local authorities will seek devolved powers from the Scottish and UK Governments as part of the Tay Cities deal, according to Dundee City Council’s director of city development.
Mike Galloway, who has taken a lead in coordinating the deal, told a delegation from local businesses that both Governments had already shown “in principle support” for the approach taken by the region.
While not going into detail about what the new powers might cover, Mr Galloway did reveal the proposals would focus on the development of specific industries and sectors.
He said: “We want to make a series of asks to the Governments and a series of offers. There is so much more point in having transport strategies and planning at a regional level.
“In order to deliver that, we will be asking for devolved powers and responsibilities from both the Scottish and UK Governments.
“Some of the most successful city deals, like Manchester, were about how the public authorities and agencies joint up and took on responsibilities for delivering services.”
A list of more than 100 projects and ideas proposed by public, private and third sector organisations have been contributed to the team compiling the proposal, with a selection now being outlined in detail for the final submission.
When this is complet in January, Perth and Kinross, Fife, Angus and Dundee City councils will then be asked to give the nod of approval to the proposal in February.
Mr Galloway said: “The final submission will be made in March. We expect a quick turnaround because of the dialogue we have had with both Governments for a long time.
“They won’t be surprised by what is contained in our submission.
“We have already had in principle support for the approach we are taking. We are not just going with a begging bowl, it’s about finding a way of working together for the next 25 to 30 years.”
Mr Galloway also said he was pleased both cities on the Tay were collaborating on a joint proposal.
“It’s incredibly symbolic that Dundee and Perth have come together for a cities deal. The way that is happening is truly revolutionary.”
He made the comments at a Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce meeting held to update the local business community of progress being made in the waterfront redevelopment, V&A Dundee and Tay Cities deal.
