Investing in Jobs

– An Economic Framework for Leith

Project Team: Lesley Martin, Stephen Hajducki Economic Development Service

Investing in Jobs – An Economic Framework for Leith

CMT 19 November 2014

Study area population 15,000 - 25,000. Wider area (Leith and Leith Walk Wards) – almost 57,000.

LEITH STUDY REPORT Version for Public Consultation following consideration by Economy Committee 18 December 2014.

Photo: Thinkstock

Study report provides background and position papers on social, economic and legislative context, redevelopment opportunities and enablers.

Key Findings

• Good prospects for new jobs in “administrative and support services” and “accommodation and food services”

• Jobs in creative, tourism and retail sectors can animate and promote Leith’s attractiveness as a destination

• Available vacant sites and buildings are limited but there are some excellent opportunity sites

• Many improvements could be made – acting as a springboard for longer term transformational change

• Potential economic benefits of the tram and: NO MORE GRAND PLANS PLEASE!!

Bring people to the area

• Events and attractions • Capitalise on creative sector

Creative Cluster – 350+ companies

Sustained improvements needed

• Improved quality and visual appeal • Conversions and new uses • Improved signage and interpretation • A better sense of a connected place

Opportunities

Promote Leith’s assets and tell the story!

• Improve communications and joined-up governance • Use four programmes of “A Strategy for Jobs” to guide activity

Programme 1 Invest in Leith’s Development and Regeneration

• Accessibility and connectivity • Enhance shopping and leisure • Develop vacant sites and buildings

Programme 2

Support inward investment

• Support the creative sector

• Support new investors

• Improve competitiveness

(eg transport connections)

Programme 3

Support businesses

• Build on success of Creative Exchange • Capture visitor spend • Match business need with vacant units • Grow key industry sectors

Programme 4

Support unemployed people into work or learning

• Promote employment support • Coordinate services • Assist movement from education into work • Address special needs

Next Steps

1. Consult on the Leith Economic Framework

2. Bring back to Economy Committee 28 April 2015

3. Develop the action areas into tasks, responsibilities and timescales

4. Publish the Framework and Study Report as a resource for Leith and wider interest.