A MAJOR consultation to help shape the economic future of the south-east of Scotland has been launched.

Businesses, organisations and people from throughout the region are urged to take part in the scheme, which looks at everything from transport, housing and education to digital inclusion, economic development and climate change.

Views will be gathered to inform the further development of the plan, the Regional Prosperity Framework. The consultation is relevant to individuals, businesses and other organisations, professional bodies and charities.

Councillor Norman Hampshire, East Lothian Council’s depute leader, said: “The Edinburgh and South East Scotland City region has always been of critical importance to the Scottish economy.

“Building on the successful partnership that is delivering the £1.3bn Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Deal, the framework aims to set out an ambitious approach to regional collaboration, looking at how partners can shape national, regional and their own local plans and strategies.

“I would encourage as many people as possible to read the really informative draft and give us their views on this crucial strategy.

“This is a great opportunity for East Lothian to grow and recover our own economy sustainably and to do this we need to have strong connections to our neighbours and to Scotland, the UK and international markets. The best way to do this is to collaborate in this innovative way.

“We are laying important groundwork to make sure East Lothian continues to flourish into the future for the benefit of all our communities.”

The Regional Prosperity Framework will inform future policy creation across a range of organisations – all aimed at ensuring the region is as resilient as possible going forward, despite current challenges, and has the right infrastructure in place to be a key contributor to the economy of Scotland.

Key themes include flourishing economy, environment and ecology, as well as looking at infrastructure, buildings and a resilient workforce.

Claire Pattullo, chairperson of the Regional Enterprise Council, said: “This is a hugely important piece of work, particularly as we move into the recovery phase of the Covid-19 pandemic and are still assessing the effects of Brexit.

“The draft has been created to stimulate debate and invite comments to help shape a finalised framework.

“This will be a document that sets out long-term aspirations for the region and informs policy development for the next 20 years. It has been developed with input from public, private and third sector organisations and aims to address the region’s challenges and opportunities to make Edinburgh and south-east Scotland a better place to live, work, study, visit and invest for current and future generations.”

Respond to the consultation before July 26 at consultationhub.edinburgh.gov.uk/bi/prosperity