Economy in spotlight at meeting

THE inaugural meeting of Dundee’s Business and Economic Council has been held this week.

More than 20 business leaders and investors were in attendance in the Vista Room at DC Thomson’s Meadowside office.

Created by city council leader John Alexander, the new forum aims to help guide Dundee’s economic approach, provide constructive feedback, challenge the city’s strategy and give insight into the business sector.

It is part of a series of measures being introduced by Mr Alexander with the aim of “super-charging” the city’s economy.

He said: “We know and have to recognise that Dundee has seen numerous improvements over the last 20 years, but we also know that challenges remain.

“According to the latest Centre for Cities report, Dundee’s private sector employment has increased by 4.5% in the last year, the ninth highest level across 63 cities UK-wide.

“But we also know that in terms of business start-up levels, we are among the lowest in the same list of 63 cities.

“It is only by redoubling our efforts, setting out a clear vision, and working hand in glove with our private sector partners that we can truly make leaps forward.

“It’s my hope that, through our work, we can not only see improvements but super-charge the local economy longer term.”

Other measures include citywide negotiations on Dundee’s levelling-up communities approach, the revival of the annual Dundee Economic Summit in June and a series of events with Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce that hope to engage with hundreds of small to medium-sized enterprises.

Councillor Steven Rome, convener of fair work, economic growth and infrastructure, said: “We have made rejuvenating the city our top priority and, over the last decade, it’s fair to say that much has been delivered.

“Employment reached its highest level since records began in 2022, we were identified as one of the top 20 locations for foreign direct investment, and perceptions outwith the city have changed dramatically for the better.

“We also need to acknowledge that there’s a long journey still to go. We need to be aspirational and give our citizens the means and tools with which to create or benefit from economic growth.

“Employment is just one measure but we also need to think about population growth, housing development growth, business start-up rates and so much more.”

SUMMIT: The Business and Economic Council holds its first meeting.