Local Authority Responses to Economic Change in West Central Scotland

The paper describes the nature of industrial decline and the consequent unemployment in the Glasgow conurbation. The political attitudes of many of the constituent local authorities have made it difficult for them to formulate and deliver policies aimed at achieving economic regeneration in the area. In consequence, a specialist regional development agency, the private sector and voluntary/community bodies have all gained responsibility for intervention in the local economy. In the current political climate, the emphasis has been placed on value-for-money in terms of cost per job created and accuracy in targeting job creation on the most disadvantaged. The paper examines work experience, small business assistance, worker co-operatives, Enterprise Zones, employment and training subsidies, and equity participation.