CITIES could be in line for investment of about £6 billion as a result of working together in partnership, the Deputy First Minister said.

Nicola Sturgeon said work being done through the Scottish Cities Alliance meant cities were "developing opportunities" which could help improve their infrastructure, support and create jobs and boost businesses. She spoke out ahead of a meeting of the Alliance, which involves the country's seven cities together with the Scottish Government and the Scottish Council for Development and Industry.

The Alliance, which includes representatives from Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Perth and Stirling, aims to develop the country's potential as a competitive place in which to live, work, visit and do business.

Ms Sturgeon said: "I look forward to exploring how the Government can best support our cities and their regions and deliver these opportunities for growth."

She added that work had already started on improvements to the M8, M73 and M74 motorway network.