In the run-up to May’s Scottish Parliament election, a clear theme appeared in party manifestos: greater powers for localities and regions.

Within the SNP’s manifesto, one notable idea – albeit one that received little attention at the time – was the suggestion of a new “arc” model for economic development. Two potential geographies were identified: an Edinburgh–Glasgow corridor, and an east coast grouping linking Aberdeen, Dundee and St Andrews.

So, an economic development approach beyond a single region. While details are thin, the core ambition is clear – bring together Scotland’s higher education institutions, along with other regional assets, and use that combined strength to anchor clusters of economic activity.

Two points of context are important to bear in mind.

Is Andy Burnham outflanking the SNP on devolution and local power?

First, “arcs” are distinctly in fashion at the moment. The Oxford–Cambridge arc has been touted for some time and is aimed at linking key higher education institutions on the back of improved connectivity. Rachel Reeves sees this as a key plank of the UK Government’s growth mission.

An arc has been proposed for Greater Manchester and Liverpool too, something that may gain further traction with Andy........

© Herald Scotland