A New Dawn for the UK: The Council of Nations and Regions Meeting in Edinburgh
On 11 October, I had the privilege of joining the Prime Minister, fellow regional mayors, and the leaders of Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland in the historic city of Edinburgh for the UK’s inaugural Council of Nations and Regions. Despite the overcast skies, the atmosphere was charged with optimism and collaboration as we gathered to discuss the future of our nations and regions.
A Bright Future in Green Industries
Our meeting was illuminated by the announcement of over £24 billion in private investment secured for the UK, which promises to create thousands of new jobs in green industries. This significant financial commitment is not just a number; it represents a genuine partnership among politicians from all corners of the country, working together with Westminster to foster the growth we desperately need. The Prime Minister’s vision for a ten-year national infrastructure strategy, set to be unveiled in the spring, further underscores our collective ambition to build a sustainable future.
Confidence in the UK Economy
The Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, aptly described this investment as a resounding vote of confidence in the UK. This sentiment was echoed at the International Investment Summit in London, where I joined him, the Chancellor, the new investment minister, and other leaders on 14 October to announce nearly £40 billion in additional investment. Our commitment to bringing more funding and opportunities to the West of England remains steadfast, as we aim to harness this momentum for the benefit of our communities.
Emerging from Economic Turmoil
The clouds of uncertainty that have loomed over our economy for years are beginning to part, revealing a glimmer of hope. The storm of Tory economic mismanagement has left its mark, but we are determined to navigate towards a brighter future. Our journey to the "sunny uplands" of prosperity will be powered by clean energy, a commitment that was solidified just days after our new government took office. We swiftly overturned the previous administration’s ban on onshore wind and initiated the Great British Energy project, setting the stage for a sustainable energy revolution.
Pioneering Clean Energy Initiatives
The West of England is already a leader in clean energy, boasting numerous world-class projects. However, it is crucial that we ensure a diverse economy that includes both blue and white-collar jobs, so that no one is left behind during this economic transformation. Last month, my Mayoral Combined Authority launched a £100 million green investment fund, committing the first £10 million to create even more jobs in this burgeoning sector.
Harnessing Local Resources for Growth
Our emerging Local Growth Plan highlights the incredible potential of the net-zero energy transition and logistics along the Severn Estuary. Collaborating with the Welsh Labour Government, we are exploring innovative projects such as a floating wind farm, while also prioritizing net-zero manufacturing and rural productivity in the Somer Valley. Furthermore, as the UK became the first country to close its last coal power station, we recognize the untapped opportunities in the heat stored within over 100 now-flooded former mines across our region. Our proud industrial history can be transformed into the jobs and energy of the future, particularly in and around the Somerset Coalfield.
A Commitment to Change
The work of change has already begun. The United Kingdom is open for business, and so is the West of England. We are committed to doing everything in our power to secure more investment, create more jobs, and stimulate growth for the million people who call our region home. Together, we can build a resilient and prosperous future, ensuring that every community benefits from the economic transformation ahead.
In conclusion, the Council of Nations and Regions meeting in Edinburgh marked a pivotal moment in our collective journey towards a sustainable and inclusive economy. With collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision, we can turn the tide and create a brighter future for all.
Dan Norris, Labour Mayor of the West of England.