Following the launch of the new think Tank ‘True North’ it has quickly become apparent to us about what the critical issues are that affect the whole region.
There are of course the traditional issues such as education, skills etc but there are also matters which bind the whole region together and if addressed, could result in significant benefits which would impact the productivity of the region and boost its prosperity.
There is therefore a strong argument for a focused agenda based on “One True North”.
Interestingly but not surprisingly there is one policy area which is always and repeatedly brought up, especially by the business community – that is connectivity. This covers rail, road, airport and of course broadband. It is in this area in which significant improvements could be achieved through substantial and thought through investment. Such investment would also have the ability to help bind the region together, helping to improve its overall economic performance and potentially close the gap with more prosperous regions.
Such investment would require sustained support across the region and across the political spectrum. Where do you start?
East West has always been a national weakness so completing the dualling of the A69 and A66 is a start. The A69 brings benefits not just from Carlisle to Newcastle but also from Northern Ireland and Southwest Scotland. Similarly, finally dualling the A66 will bind the west of Cumbria right across to Teeside, two areas of significant industrial importance, particularly around the nuclear sector and renewables.
Then improvements to the North-South link – dualling the A1 and major improvements to the East Coast Main Rail line would drive better connections to London.
There are of course more sub-regional issues such as the coastal rail service around Cumbria, the A595, the much needed extension tor the Metro and major junction upgrades to the A19.
It is accepted there would be a cost but the benefits would be huge. It would give businesses greater reasons to invest or relocate which will bring jobs, economic development and prosperity across the region. This would require central government finance but a clear commitment over a number of years to deliver specific infrastructure projects would boost confidence and encourage private sector investment and commitment. The other key infrastructure which again would have a significant impact on the area that has a high rural population is the rolling out of broadband. Combined with the physical infrastructure it has the potential to be a real game changer.
The clearest way to do this would be through devolution. Devolving powers and responsibilities to council leaders and mayors would be critical. Three mayors taking the lead supported by the individual councils. All buying into a One True North concept which collectively could bring massive benefits to the who region.
A combination of regional leadership supported by a pro-active government would bring about a transformed True North – what’s not to like.
