Policy Library

The Future of Work: Regional Revolution

The policies proposed are built on evidence that local problems need local solutions led by local champions. Success stories, where towns have seen a resurgence in economic fortunes, have always involved strong local leadership, joined up thinking across different local and central government departments, co-operation between business and government, and lastly buy-in from across the political divide. We are beginning to see the real fruits of success in Manchester and the Tees-Valley. In Manchester Sir Richard Leese and Sir Howard Bernstein provided the strong leadership that has seen a growth in direct investment, the number of high value businesses and successive devolution deals. In Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen is overseeing a complete redevelopment of the Redcar steel site, that at its peak employed more than 20,000 workers.

This paper is also resolute in its belief that policy makers have to look at the social problems that have taken hold in some communities. If you do not tackle crime, welfare dependency, support better schools, reduce the risk of young people being caught up in gang and drug culture, as well as helping parents stay together to support young children, it will be hard to generate the growth, jobs and economic opportunity some communities so desperately need.

If the 21 recommendations in this paper are followed, we believe the UK economy will be more balanced, delivering more and better jobs for people across the country.