GLASGOW and Edinburgh have been ranked amongst the top inclusive cities in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) according to new research by Cushman & Wakefield.

The ‘Inclusive Cities Barometer Report’ was compiled by the global real estate services firm who evaluated 44 EMEA cities based upon 110 different metrics to uncover the industry’s first data set on inclusive cities.  An inclusive city is one that priorities diversity, equity and accessibility for all residents regardless of their background, identity or socio-economic status.

Glasgow was identified as a ‘Best in Class Example’ as a ‘Strong Spatial Inclusiveness Performer’. It was applauded for its robust transportation network, making it cost-effective and convenient to travel.  The city’s vibrant nightlife and retail sectors, combined with its low property price to income ratio made it stand out amongst other cities, alongside a commitment to inclusive special planning.

Other positive drivers include its affordable housing and property with a focus on delivering social rented accommodation; it’s strong education and cultural offering with higher education bolstered by university subsidies; and its steady population growth and balanced population density that puts limited pressure on infrastructure.

Areas of improvement include comparatively high rates of vulnerable employment; a focus of balance of employment between financial services and manual/labour based jobs; and a need to focus better on private-public collaboration to improve urban attractiveness to address obsolesces in core building stock.

The top drivers for Edinburgh include a strong social inclusivity for parents and families driven by supportive paid parental leave; Edinburgh University and its schools offer a diverse and cultural inclusive curriculum; and high rates of safety and security driven by low crime rates.

Areas of improvement include high rates of vulnerable employment; high costs of housing and limited scope for city centre housing provision; and the future development of affordable housing hindered by high tourism rates and lack of available land.

Rotterdam was identified as the ‘Best Overall Performer’, setting a precedent for all worldwide urban centres.  The cities were defined and measured by their social, economic, spatial and environmental inclusivity.  Within these critical categories, data was then identified from peer-reviewed scientific sources such as the World Bank and United Nations.

Murray Strang, Managing Partner, Scotland, Cushman & Wakefield said: “We know there’s no such thing as the perfect city, butThe Barometer is designed to challenge the status quo by enhancing social value at every decision making stage within the commercial property sector.

“Cities contribute to around 80% of global GDP so the more information we have, the better informed we can be when planning and making decisions.

“It’s good to see both Glasgow and Edinburgh have positive attributes to contribute and celebrate on such an international platform.”

Cushman & Wakefield’s Inclusive Cities Barometer Report can be accessed here – Inclusive Cities Barometer EMEA (cld.bz)