The move, the first of its kind in Scotland, will see the authorities pursue a common economic strategy between now and the year 2035.

In a collaborative approach, the eight councils will bring thousands of hectares of vacant or derelict land forward for the homes.

The group is also targeting 100,000 extra jobs; 6,500 new businesses, and big improvements in qualifications, training and skills.

The eight authorities participating in the joint strategy are East Dunbartonshire Council; East Renfrewshire Council; Glasgow City Council; Inverclyde Council; North Lanarkshire Council; Renfrewshire Council; South Lanarkshire Council and West Dunbartonshire Council - existing partners in the Glasgow City Region City Deal, along with Scottish and UK governments.

However, the new project builds on and extends that collaboration - with authorities working more closely than ever before.

This means not only committing to a shared strategy, but agreeing to joint decision-making; integrated service delivery, and aligning resources to avoid duplication.

Chair of the Glasgow City Region Cabinet and leader of Glasgow City Council, Cllr Frank McAveety, said: “The Glasgow City Region is already the powerhouse of the Scottish economy – but, as council leaders, we are absolutely united in our determination to aim higher on jobs, skills and growth that benefits every community.

“This strategy and action plan represents a step-change in our approach.

“Only by working together will we build a more resilient and dynamic city region that delivers homes and jobs for a skilled workforce and prosperity for all its people.”

Authorities across the city region formally agreed the joint strategy and action plan yesterday, before presenting details to business and education leaders at a networking event at The Lighthouse, Scotland’s centre for design and architecture.

The plan identifies key priorities for the region’s economy; along with 50 specific actions, both short and long-term, to deliver them.

Scottish Government economy secretary, Keith Brown, said: “It is encouraging to see city region partners working collaboratively with each other and government to achieve positive regional and national economic outcomes.

“The Scottish Government is investing £500m over the lifespan of the deal and we are fully committed to working closely with city region partners to maximise the opportunities created through the Glasgow City Region City Deal.”

UK minister for Scotland, Andrew Dunlop, added: “The Glasgow City Deal is an ambitious plan to maximise the economic potential of the region, boosting the economy and creating jobs.

“We are pleased that every city in Scotland is on course to have their own UK City Deal. They are a great example of the UK Government working collaboratively with partners to deliver real change.”