| Building on Places for Everyone, the plan sets out how we will use our unique devolved powers to build employment sites and tens of thousands of new homes. Our ambition is to deliver £1 billion of investment every year for the next 10 years, working with our councils and partners to deliver at pace and at scale. The plan will create a single, Integrated Pipeline of growth which would target investment at six Growth Locations across Greater Manchester. The Growth Locations are made up of our biggest regeneration projects and investment opportunities, where the potential to boost the regional economy is highest while ensuring all 10 of our boroughs benefit. This approach will make sure developments are complementary and have the infrastructure to create thriving, well-connected communities – from green spaces, to great transport links via the Bee Network, and low-carbon heating systems. The plan will also create a single investment pot, using the flexibility agreed as part of our trailblazer devolution deal, and a new GM Academy, which will link councils and the private sector to attract, retain and develop the best regeneration talent. Regeneration around Old Trafford – part of the Western Gateway Growth Location – is a prime example of the potential waiting to be unlocked. The project represents the biggest sports-led regeneration scheme since the London 2012 Olympics, and could create 48,000 new jobs, 17,000 new homes, and add £4.2 billion to the local economy. This week we will hear a major speech from the Chancellor about growth. Our own conversations with Government have been encouraging and there is a real recognition that Greater Manchester can play a central role in the national growth mission. This was reflected in recent announcements made about regional growth. The Chancellor is championing the Old Trafford project as a “shining example” of its pro-development approach. The Treasury has outlined plans for how the National Wealth Fund and Office for Investment will work with local leaders to promote our investment opportunities. The Green Book, the government guidance on value for money for public investment, is set to be reviewed. And a Task and Finish group, convened by the Treasury and MHCLG, will explore further opportunities for devolution in skills, transport, and business support in Greater Manchester. You’ll have no doubt seen the good news that the Government has backed Greater Manchester’s investment-led plan for clean air. A fleet of new buses and traffic-calming measures will help us improve air quality – without the need for a charge on motorists. This announcement came shortly after the Mayor set out a step-by-step plan to bring eight commuter rail lines into the Bee Network by 2028, bringing us closer to the joined-up public transport system that is so crucial to our plans for growth. The upcoming GMCA meeting in Stockport will give leaders an opportunity to hear more about these developments and I will update you after those discussions. Greater Manchester’s success over the past 20 years has been made possible by the strength of our partnerships and our system pulling together in the same direction. It’s in that same spirit, and with a sense of optimism and excitement, that we look ahead to a new decade of growth. |
