Keith Brown MSP, Member of the Scottish Parliament for Clackmannanshire & Dunblane, has called for greater clarity on delivery milestones and investment plans for the Stirling & Clackmannanshire City Region Deal during an exchange in the Scottish Parliament with Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes MSP.

Keith highlighted the ambition set out in the original Heads of Terms to unlock more than £640 million of private investment and deliver over 5,000 jobs across the region, and pressed the Scottish Government to outline how momentum will be strengthened to ensure communities benefit fully from the Deal.

Commenting, Keith said:

“The City Region Deal has huge potential to deliver long-term economic opportunity across our communities, but it’s essential that we maintain a clear focus on delivery and secure the levels of private investment and job creation originally envisaged.

“For people living locally, the success of this partnership isn’t an abstract ambition – it’s about bringing new jobs, better prospects and sustained economic growth to areas that need it most. That is why I asked the Deputy First Minister for updated milestones and performance measures, so that partners and the public can have confidence that momentum is building and that the benefits will be felt where it matters.

“I welcome the Deputy First Minister’s assurance that my concerns will be taken into account as planning for the next phase progresses, and that both governments are meeting regularly with programme management to keep projects on track. Covid-19 and inflation have clearly affected progress, but it’s vital we continue to work closely together to accelerate delivery wherever possible.

“I will also be meeting with Clackmannanshire Council and the University of Stirling next week to discuss progress and ensure we continue driving forward delivery of the City Region Deal for the benefit of our communities.”