New strategy to boost Midlothian’s economy

The strategy aims to recognise the region’s key economic opportunities and challenges, identifying the assets and skills needed to boost the local economy. It is expected to be published by the end of this year.

To help develop the strategy, a series of interactive workshop sessions has been scheduled to allow partner organisations, businesses, other key stakeholders and local residents to have their say. , explained the thinking behind this approach.

“We want to work with our business community and other organisations, interested groups and individuals, to help identify priorities for the area and to determine how we can best achieve these. Our aim is to encourage investment and business growth, create new jobs and training opportunities.

“Each of the six workshops to be held during August and September will focus on specific themes which are seen as key to Midlothian’s economy. Although we are inviting representatives from key organisations and businesses to attend, I would encourage anyone who has an interest to book a place.”

Councillor Russell Imrie, Midlothian Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities

The first of the workshops, on the theme of Community Planning and Place, will be held on Tuesday 20 August from 1.30 to 4.30pm at Gorebridge Beacon.

Life Sciences will be the theme on Tuesday 27 August from 10am to 12.30pm at Roslin Innovation Centre, followed by a Business and Development workshop on Wednesday 28 August from 2 to 4.30pm at Saint John's & Kings Park Church, Dalkeith.

Employment and Skills is the theme on Thursday 29 August from 10am to 12.30pm at The Sidings, Newtongrange, with Data and Digital on Tuesday 3 September from 10am to 12.30pm at Newbattle Community Campus Library.

Finally, Tourism, Food and Drink come under discussion at the workshop on Thursday 5 September from 2 to 4pm at the Old Millhouse, Newmills Road, Dalkeith (venue to be confirmed).

If you are interested in any of the events then please Register