Simple terms explainer: 

Councils can take part in City Region Deals and Growth Deals, voluntary partnerships between councils, the Scottish Government, and the UK Government, that bring extra investment into local communities to support long-term economic growth. This can include funding for transport improvements, new housing, innovation hubs, digital infrastructure, and job creation. Each deal is tailored to the needs of the region and councils can unlock significant funding and support and are responsible for delivering the agreed projects and making sure the benefits reach local people and businesses.