4 February 2008
Employment and business opportunities in Craigmillar have been boosted with the launch of an initiative which will see the area benefit further from the ongoing regeneration.
The Craigmillar Business and Employment Charter, which was launched in January by Councillor Tom Buchanan, Convener of the Economic Development Committee at The City of Edinburgh Council, encourages companies benefiting from the regeneration programme to provide business opportunities for Craigmillar businesses, job opportunities and support local employment training initiatives.
The Charter’s launch has already been supported by nine bodies including local training and business organisations, PARC and construction companies currently working on school and home building projects in Craigmillar. As more contractors and sub-contractors come onboard, they will also be asked to sign-up to the Charter and help support the local community.
Key elements of this initiative include the provision of career opportunities through apprenticeship programmes for the area’s young people and providing business opportunities for local businesses. This initiative is already starting to prove successful for local young people with some apprenticeships already created.
The initiative has been delivered in partnership by PARC, the Craigmillar District Business Association, Worktrack and contractors to ensure local people and companies have full access to the variety of opportunities that will exist over the coming years.
Councillor Buchanan said: “The regeneration of Craigmillar is about more than bricks and mortar, but requires the development of a vibrant local economy. Through providing employment and training opportunities for local residents, this Charter will help guarantee a sustainable future for Craigmillar. I warmly welcome this initiative which sees PARC, the business community and The City of Edinburgh Council come together in order to deliver for Craigmillar and its residents.”
John Quinn, PARC General Manager added: “Craigmillar is a community that is looking to the future; striving to create an environment that is good for economic, social and educational growth. Its clear vision and focus is a major force in delivering the regeneration and shows the community’s eagerness to realise great things.
“The launch of this Charter is a key element in all of this. We, along with our partners, are committed to making sure the people and businesses in Craigmillar benefit at all stages of this process. We believe the Charter will help achieve this and allow the community to play a significant role in driving forward the future of the area.”
The nine involved in the Craigmillar Business and Employment Charter are: PARC, Lovell Contractors, Hart Builders, Rettie and Co, Worktrack, CBC, HBG, Construction Academy and Cre8te.