WORK is to begin on what Fife Council describe as ambitious plans for an Edinburgh City Region which they say could generate millions of investment in the kingdom.

Councillors backed plans at this week’s executive committee.

Fife Council will now work with Edinburgh City Council and other neighbouring local authorities on the plans.

Other areas of the UK are part of City Regions, including Glasgow which was set up this year.

Glasgow City Region Deal includes a £1.13billion infrastructure fund made up from UK Government, Scottish Government and local authority funding.

This fund will be used for a range of investment plans to improve public transport and the transport network and unlock key development and regeneration sites.

It’s hoped this type of fund would also be part of the Edinburgh City Region and bring benefits to member areas including Fife.

Now the plans have been passed by committee officers will confirm with other neighbouring local authorities the exact geographical location of the proposed City Region. Further updates will be brought to the executive committee.

Depute council leader Lesley Laird said, “Being part of an Edinburgh City Region could unlock millions of pounds of investment for each area involved and lead vital infrastructure improvements that the council alone wouldn’t be able to afford.

“It’s vital work begins now to ensure we’re not left behind with work that’s already beginning in other areas like Glasgow, Manchester and Leeds.

“Being part of a City Region gives us the opportunity to further enhance the local economy and is one of a number of ways we’d like to realise our aspiration of helping make Fife the best place to do business.”