A Tale of Two Regions: How Global Cities are Thriving While the North West Economy Lags
Research commissioned by Holywell Trust has unveiled a stark reality for the North West economy, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for growth and regional development. The study, which compared the North West's economy with that of other cities and regions around the world that straddle national boundaries, paints a picture of a region grappling with issues that are hindering its potential. The findings, presented by author Paul Gosling at a seminar in Derry, reveal a complex interplay of factors that are impacting the North West's economic prospects.
The Challenges of Connectivity: A Cross-Border Puzzle
One of the most significant challenges identified in the research is the lack of seamless integration across the border. While there is some connectivity between Derry and Donegal, with various bodies working towards growth and regional development, the report underscores the hurdles presented by different currencies, tax rules, and the lack of mutual recognition of skills and qualifications. These discrepancies create barriers to labor market integration, impacting the region's ability to attract and retain talent.
The report further highlights the inadequate public transport infrastructure as a major constraint. Despite the fact that thousands of people cross the border daily for work and study, there is currently no cross-border rail connectivity and significant gaps in bus services. This lack of efficient and integrated transportation networks hinders the movement of people and goods, impeding economic growth and hindering opportunities for cross-border collaboration.
Learning from the Global Landscape: Examples of Success
The Holywell Trust research doesn't simply point out problems. It offers valuable insights from global cities that have successfully overcome similar challenges, demonstrating the potential for the North West to achieve similar success. The report presents examples of cross-border collaboration from various regions across the world, showcasing how cooperation can lead to economic prosperity.
Basel, Switzerland provides a compelling example of how integrated cross-border public transport can benefit a region. The city's efficient transportation system, utilized by thousands of commuters, exemplifies the potential of a connected infrastructure. Mondragon, in the Basque region of Spain, offers another model of success through its cooperative economic system. This model emphasizes shared success and collective ownership, demonstrating the power of collaboration.
Across the Atlantic, the Pacific Northwest/Cascadia region, encompassing both US and Canadian states, showcases the benefits of cross-border collaboration in trade, ecological protection, and management. The region's investment in stronger transportation linkages, aimed at supporting new housing hubs, illustrates the potential for integrated infrastructure to drive economic development. Finally, twin cities in South East Asia provide compelling examples of how integrated cross-border labor markets and infrastructure can fuel economic growth.
A Call for Action: Fostering a Shared Future
Paul Gosling, the author of the report, emphasizes the need for a joined-up approach to tackle the challenges facing the North West. He advocates for strengthening labor market integration, backed by mutual recognition of skills and qualifications, investing in integrated cross-border public transport, and supporting public services and social infrastructure. He believes that the report's findings are particularly timely given that the Department for Infrastructure is currently consulting on its transport plan for the North West.
Gerard Deane, Director of Holywell Trust, echoes this sentiment, highlighting the importance of the research for improving the lives of residents on both sides of the border. He hopes to gather further opinions on the subject, aiming to report back on the priorities of the public for a vibrant and sustainable local economy.
The Holywell Trust research provides a roadmap for the future of the North West. It underscores the need for collaborative action to address the region's challenges and capitalize on its opportunities. The examples of global success offer a blueprint for the North West to create a more connected, prosperous, and sustainable future.
A Future Worth Building: What’s Next for the North West?
The North West, like many other cross-border regions, has the potential to flourish through collaboration and shared vision. The Holywell Trust report serves as a powerful reminder of the opportunities that lie ahead, urging policymakers and stakeholders to work together to build a better future for the region. The report underscores the importance of integrated infrastructure, fostering a strong labor market, and embracing cross-border collaboration. It’s a call for action, a testament to the power of collective effort, and a glimpse into a future where the North West can overcome its challenges and achieve its full potential.
