regional Prosperity framework
The Regional Prosperity Framework (RPF) was approved by the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal Joint Committee on 3 September 2021, and its Delivery Plan was approved by the same Committee on 3 March 2023.
RPF
The RPF, published in September 2021, is the next phase of the development of Edinburgh and South East Scotland’s regional economy, building upon the City Region Deal. It is designed to be a single document that helps to shape where public and private investment, including Levelling Up monies, could make the best contribution to drive the region forward in a sustainable and inclusive manner.
Download the Regional Prosperity Framework (RPF) [PDF, 2.3 MB]
Delivery Plan
The RPF Delivery Plan, published in March 2023, sets out an ambitious and dynamic series of four key programmes to deliver the region’s ambitions: Green Regeneration; Infrastructure for Recovery and Prosperity; Visitor Economy and Culture; and Data Driven Innovation (DDI) Economy.
These programmes will enable the city region to maintain and enhance its global reputation and become the data capital of Europe, delivering sustainable and inclusive growth.
View the RPF Delivery Plan (interactive version)
View the RPF Delivery Plan [PDF, 2.6 MB]
Vision
The ambitious 20-year economic framework has a vision:
To become the data capital of Europe.
To ensure the social and economic benefits of this capability extend to all. All sections of the community will have the opportunity to develop the key skills that will help to end inequalities in our society.
To protect our environment and make best use of our extraordinary built and natural assets, ensuring that the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region delivers a just transition to a net zero economy.
To deliver positive outcomes that enhance our local, national, and international reputation through our ancient and modern institutions.
Reports
Net Zero Accelerator Skills report
West Lothian College, on behalf of the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal, successfully delivered a Feasibility Study for a Net Zero Accelerator Hub (NZAH) in the region. This report was co-authored by the University of Edinburgh. This comprehensive study laid the foundation for the NZAH by conducting detailed skills mapping, initial preparation, and strategic planning, with critical input from West Lothian, Borders, Edinburgh, and Fife Colleges.
As part of the project, architectural plans and designs were produced for the future development of expanding training facilities, by Fraser Livingston Architects. In addition, the report draws on the regional study led by Fife Council, funded by Innovate UK, which analysed the Net Zero activities expected activity across the six Local Authorities within the ESES City Region Deal area.
The study represents a significant step forward in advancing the region's Net Zero delivery ambitions through collaboration and strategic planning.
Read the Net Zero Accelerator Hub Skills Report [PDF, 897KB]
Building Scotland’s Low-Carbon Workforce: Strategic Recommendations for Curriculum Development
This report, developed under the Regional Energy Masterplan, evaluates Scotland’s current skills landscape and training requirements to achieve ambitious 2030 and 2045 targets for heat decarbonisation and retrofitting. Led by The Verdancy Group (TVG), experts in sustainability training, the project identifies critical skills gaps and outlines actionable recommendations to ensure a workforce ready to support large-scale decarbonisation initiatives.
Through extensive consultations with industry experts, educators, and policymakers, the report highlights key challenges, including skills shortages, educational gaps, and the need for alignment with national policies like the Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategies (LHEES). These findings have directly informed Phase 2 of the project, which is underway and focuses on refining recommendations, validating insights, and developing a roadmap for enhancing Scotland’s training infrastructure. This work is pivotal to supporting the nation’s transition to Net Zero.
Last updated: 18 December, 2024
