The Government has been urged to be more ‘radical’ on devolution of transport and infrastructure funding to the North by IPPR North.
Research conducted by the think tank found businesses back the Northern Powerhouse agenda but are calling for more devolution beyond the existing Transport for the North (TfN) plans. IPPR North said TfN could potentially grow into an ‘Infrastructure for the North’ with more economic development responsibilities.
However, businesses are warning greater leadership and additional spending in the North are required.
‘Northern businesses have overwhelming embraced the Northern Powerhouse agenda and welcome the fact central Government is finally "talking up" the North', said Ed Cox, director of IPPR North.
‘But despite its remarkable popularity, the Northern Powerhouse must go beyond its current guise as a brand. Bosses told us they want to see a more radical devolution of powers and funding over key economic issues, such as transport, infrastructure and business rates.’
