West Lothian Council's Executive has backed a new Economic Investment Plan (EIP) 2025 to 2035 for the area, which supersedes the previous Economic Recovery Plan to support the rebuilding of the local economy after the Covid-19 pandemic.
The aspirational strategy sets out a framework on how the council and its partners aim to maximise the economic competitiveness of West Lothian and its contribution to the regional and national economies.
As West Lothian and its economy changes over the next decade, this is expected to create new opportunities for residents, businesses, and stakeholders alike. The EIP aims to ensure that West Lothian is able to capitalise on the arising opportunities and address challenges, so West Lothian continues to be a thriving and inclusive place where people want to work, live and invest in the future.
Executive councillor for Economy, Community Empowerment and Wealth Building Susan Manion said: "I'm delighted to support the adoption of the new Economic Investment Plan 2025 to 2035 for West Lothian.
"A strong West Lothian economy benefits us all, and the plan will continue to evolve over the next 10 years to best meet the needs of local residents and businesses.
"While many factors are out with the control of the council, we will continue to work with a wide range of local, regional and national partners to use all the levers we can to help unlock and better realise future opportunities for West Lothian."
The EIP has been developed through a process of research and public consultation, including analysis of the local economy and insights from partners. Its vision for the local economy in 2035 is one that will be driven by a vibrant and diverse business base, from small local businesses to high growth start-ups and medium and large employers across a broad range of industries.
Four key investment themes have been identified to address opportunities and challenges, which are:
1: Skills and Employment. Sustainable and better paid work is the best route out of poverty and the basis for higher living standards, so this priority will focus on helping more people in West Lothian to get into employment and to develop the skills that will enable them to progress to higher quality jobs.
2: Enterprise Growth. Supporting the growth of businesses at all stages across the West Lothian economy, helping to create better paid jobs and encourage a cycle of investment and growth in key sectors such as life sciences, photonics and advanced manufacturing.
3: Enablers of Growth. Using our infrastructure and land as a key driver of success for West Lothian, such as ensuring we have suitable land for development and housing, as well as transport and road infrastructure which is fit for purpose
4: Transition to Net Zero. Adapting to meet the climate emergency and adopting the new low carbon technologies and green industries for the benefit of businesses and communities across West Lothian.
