William Eichler 10 June 2016

Small northern cities add £82bn to economy annually, new study

The North’s small and medium-sized cities (SMCs) contribute more than Wales and Northern Ireland combined to the UK economy every year - but they need to be better connected to the bigger cities, report says.

The thinktank IPPR North has published a new report into northern SMCs which found they contribute £82bn a year to the economy and represent one third of the northern economy.

The report, entitled City systems: the role of smaller towns and cities in growing the Northern Powerhouse, also revealed growth rates in the 20 SMCs with populations over 75,000 match levels seen in major cities.

IPPR does, however, argue that many SMCs do face significant challenges from not being better connected to bigger cities, and urges Whitehall to review the ‘London-centric’ system of transport funding which favours major cities.

The report also recommends the Government treat SMCs in a manner similar to how it treats small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with bespoke support to foster local strengths.

Ed Cox, director of IPPR North, said: ‘In the same way small and medium businesses are now seen as vital to the British economy and the success of our big companies, we need to refocus policy on the North’s small and medium towns and cities, and not just the big cities – vital as they are.

‘The evidence shows this is not “jam-spreading” resources thinly but economically the right thing to do: Manchester needs a prosperous Wigan to succeed, and vice-versa.’

A report last month warned the Northern Powerhouse will only succeed if more resources are spent on underperforming cities in the region.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Highly Specialist Clinical Psychologist

Oxfordshire County Council
£62215 - £72293
How about joining The Clinical Team at Oxfordshire County Council in our new Community Family Clinic initiative? Oxford
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Traffic Management Officer - WMF2114e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£37,035 - £37,938
Are you an experienced and motivated professional looking to take the next step in your traffic management career? Cumbria / Various
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Peripatetic Support Assistant

Wakefield Council
£16,415.00 - £16,675.23 Grade 4, 24.5 hours, Permanent
Are you caring, compassionate, and friendly? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Peripatetic Support Assistant

Wakefield Council
£14,070.00 - £14,293.05 Grade 4, 21 hours, Permanent
Are you caring, compassionate, and friendly? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Recruitment Support Officer

Durham County Council
£25,584 to £27,711 p.a. (Grade 5) pay award pending
We are looking for a Recruitment Support Officer to join our team on a temporary basis until 31 March 2026. In this role, you will provide a comprehe Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner