A Shettleson councillor is calling on the local authority to work to develop Glasgow as a “business friendly” city following the announcement of two new investment zones. 

Baillie Thomas Kerr is looking to identify current issues faced by businesses and investors in the city and explore what steps the council can take to address them.

He also wants to ensure that the council’s policies are as efficient as possible to encourage and welcome those who want to invest in Glasgow.

It comes after Glasgow City Region was announced as one of two new Investment Zones in Scotland following a joint selection process by the UK and Scottish Governments.

Both the City Region and the North East, will be supported by an overall funding of up to £80 million in targeted investment, tax relief and other incentives over five years.

Bailie Kerr’s motion reads: “Council welcomes the decision by the UK Government to designate the Glasgow City Region as one of two of Scotland’s Investment Zones alongside North East Scotland.

“Council notes that the UK and Scottish Governments worked closely together on this decision and welcomes proactive and positive engagement between both of our Governments.

“Council recognises and thanks all of those officers from this Council and the wider Glasgow City Region who played their part in making the case for Glasgow and the wider region to benefit from an investment zone.

“Council welcomes the up to £80 million that will be invested over the next 5 years as part of this zone and that it will be focused on creating jobs and prosperity.”

Regional leaders, businesses and universities are now taking the lead in shaping plans for the Investment Zone, and discussions between Glasgow City Region and both governments are ongoing to develop detailed proposals.

The motion continued: “The council expresses its firm desire to create a truly business friendly city and recognises the key role that the council plays in delivering this through planning and economic development policies, delivering efficient services for residents and businesses and ensuring that our city’s infrastructure is fit for purpose.”

If the motion is successful, the chief executive will prepare a paper for members of the economy, housing, transport and regeneration committee to set out how Glasgow can become a “truly” business friendly city within six months.