Tag: UK Government

It’s now or never for public agencies to support the Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Open Letter from SHONA McCARTHY, Chief Executive, Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society

What a fantastic week for the cultural sector of Scotland.  All the lobbying, advocacy and effort from so many, for so long, has resulted in some desperately needed stability and longer-term security; and Culture Counts did a sterling job in leading the charge. 

It has been uplifting and joyful to see so many brilliant theatres, companies, community art centres, creatives and festivals across Scotland, invested in, and supported to make new work and do ambitious things. 

A special nod to the success of our sister festivals – the Film, Children’s, Art, Book and Jazz festivals; and with over £5million in public sector support per year, the Edinburgh International festival will be enabled to undertake some truly wonderful commissions and programming. Perhaps this will be the moment for some shared resource into a collaboration of all six summer festivals to create a spectacular, free-to-access opening and closing of the whole season for Edinburgh’s residents. Exciting times and I look forward to the imaginative programming to come.

It is also wonderful to see Hidden Door secure some core support – its devolved curatorial approach and fusions of genre and imagination have brought something new to the whole festivals landscape.  Congratulations are due all-round and hats off to the Scottish Government for recognising the value of the arts to the heart and soul of the nation, to job creation, well-being and the economy.  All of this in the same week that the Fringe Society has had its own news to share, with the announcement of our new Chief Executive coming in to post in April this year.

However, I hope support can also be found for those who didn’t make the list this time.

The Fringe is a different beast.  It is complex, but only if you want it to be.  However, its complexity should not be a reason not to support the very event that gives Edinburgh’s festivals their global brand, economic success and enormous impact for the performing arts across Scotland, the UK and the world.  It truly is an access point for so many artists and audiences alike, into the arts.

Here’s where we are:

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is made up of thousands of moving parts.  All of those are important and are what make it unique.  The Fringe is not a funded, curated arts festival, it is a platform and a marketplace that is open to anyone.  Every artist or show that comes to Edinburgh does so at their own financial risk, and with their own set of objectives for what they want from participating in the Fringe. There are many producers who will annually develop and support a selection of shows to present at the Edinburgh Fringe, who share the risk with their artists. The venues that host them are all different models, but many of them also take significant risk, or share risk with producers and artists.

Then there is the Fringe Society – the small charity that is made up of Fringe members and provides core services to the festival: artist support, box office, marketing, promotion, and audience navigational tools.  Income generated from participants through registration fees and box office commission pays for these services.  The Fringe Society delivers a whole programme of added value that is designed to remove barriers to participants and audiences and ensure inclusion.  This work isn’t financed by income from the Fringe, but is supported by donations, fundraising and ring-fenced public funds for projects. In keeping costs to participants low or frozen for 18 years, the income generated from registration fees and tickets, has long-since come far short of covering the costs of services to the Fringe.

Once upon a time the Fringe was a self-financing ecosystem with a collective effort from all the fringe-makers on keeping it affordable for artists and audiences. However, the well-documented economic context of recent years changed that.  In this moment, if Edinburgh, Scotland and the UK wants to keep the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, then the whole thing needs support, and that has to come from multiple sources and has to support both the Fringe and the Fringe Society.

The Fringe Society needs core annual public sector support if it is to continue to provide services to the Fringe at an affordable level.  It also needs to be able to adjust its fees to meet some of the rising costs too. A stable Fringe Society can continue to play a positive convening role for the wider Fringe community and in recent recovery years we have been able to redistribute some £6.3million out through the Fringe ecology in funds for artists, producing venues and support for Scottish work, to help it survive and stabilise.

The Fringe Society will continue to use its convening role to raise funds to support artists through the Keep it Fringe fund and Made in Scotland. We must also ensure that the essential digital infrastructure that supports festival systems – online tools and wayfinding, are future-proofed, and will seek support and donations to retain our 32 community partnerships across the city so that they can continue to experience their Fringe their way, both during August and year-round.

What could a whole Fringe support strategy look like.

For a stable, healthy Fringe we need a joined-up investment strategy that includes the Scottish Government, the City of Edinburgh Council and the UK Government.  We have continuously made the case and both UK and Scottish Governments have recognised the unique place that the Fringe occupies as a platform, a showcase, a marketplace and global expo. There is nothing else like it on these islands, and it offers something unique in the world as an annual global meeting place to celebrate the performing arts in all their glory and for the business of the performing arts to be done.

We of course need a stable Fringe community with companies, producers and theatres able to produce work, and the investment from the Scottish Government last week goes a long way towards this.  We will continue to lobby until Scotland is on a par with the best of Europe.

The Fringe Society’s new year-round Fringe Central secured a capital grant that will create new affordable rehearsal spaces for artists, and also unlocked £1million in Keep it Fringe funds for direct bursaries to 360 artists over 2024 and 2025.

The Fringe Society are aiming to sustain the Keep it Fringe fund in some form, and producer James Seabright has already committed financial support.

Investment in the Fringe Society from the Scottish Government is needed to ensure the charity can continue to provide core services to this vital event. 

The Scottish Government have recognised that this organisation falls between the cracks and have made the commitment to support, and this is a work in progress.  Scottish artists, companies and many local producing theatres and venues are supported through the multi-year funding programme, the Open Fund, and the Made In Scotland showcase at the Fringe and this helps. Yet there is still a gap in support for the whole Fringe operation, and there is a continuing disparity between the infrastructural needs and financial support made available for major sport events as opposed to the investment in sustained, annual arts events with longitudinal impact, like the Edinburgh Fringe.

For the UK Government – the Edinburgh Fringe hosts artists from all over the UK, with over 2,000 shows coming from England alone every year; with producers and promoters bringing work to be showcased and booked for onward opportunities.  The Fringe ecosystem needs support to host all of this. 

The UK Government have so far provided a Capital Grant to the Fringe Society to create a year-round Fringe Central space, and we have been making the case to build on this investment for the whole ecology. This could happen in several ways:

  • Theatre Tax Relief could be extended to support the venue infrastructure set up at the Fringe that is undoubtedly part of the production process
  • The Fringe should be supported by UK Government for its role as a driver of the Creative industries – Industrial strategy, and well-positioned for support from the £65 million recently announced by Secretary of State Lisa Nandy
  • It should be recognised as a Major Event for the UK, and its operating structures supported as would so readily be done with a sporting event of this scale and reach, such as an Olympic or Commonwealth Games
  • Arts Councils across UK should be investing in their artists to support them coming to the Fringe, as international showcases already do

The City of Edinburgh Council is crucial in providing a supportive operating context:

  • The Fringe will generate over £1million in Visitor Levy – this money should be ring-fenced to be redistributed in supporting the event
  • Affordable accommodation is the single biggest barrier to making the Fringe truly inclusive for creatives, workers and audiences.  There are three ways this could be alleviated
    • Exemptions on home-letting and home-sharing being real, effective and immediate
    • A mechanism for HMOs (houses of multiple occupancy) privately run student accommodation to be made available to artists during the summer months
    • A map of accommodation capacity within a one-hour commute of Edinburgh and the supporting transport routes to make that underused capacity viable

New structures have already been set up to create this joined up approach through a National Festivals Partnership and a Festival City Infrastructure group. Let’s hope these structures can finally bring a strategic and supportive approach, to enable the Fringe to sit comfortably within Scotland’s national cultural asset base whilst also being properly enabled to welcome the emerging performing artists and breakthrough work from across the UK and the world.

The Edinburgh Fringe is unlike any other cultural event in the world, in that it is largely self-financed by those who take the risk to make and show work. It is made up of hundreds of parts, all of which are important.  It is a wonderful balance of ticketed venues, street performance, free shows and pay what you want shows; from new discoveries to world-class and established artists.

It is the sum of these parts that makes it distinctive, inclusive, extraordinary and with something to say in the world.  The stability of the Fringe is dependent on a recognition by everyone involved in it; that it is not owned by anyone – no organisation, group, or collective. It has no super league or participant base that is any more important than any other. It is a platform for freedom of expression like no other – ever evolving, growing, contracting and contorting.

It is not stuck in any one period of time, and should never allow any single interest group or sense of entitlement to derail its beautiful, messy and joyful mission for inclusion and cultural democracy

Its mantra is to give anyone a stage and everyone a seat – and that’s a mantra worth protecting and championing. That’s the Fringe.  What a welcome it would be for the incoming CEO of the Fringe Society, if this extraordinary event was set on a new foundation stone where both the Fringe itself and the charity that supports it are validated and supported.  With that support and validation, the whole Fringe community can move forward together collaboratively to secure the future of this vital event.

The cultural sector review will perhaps take a closer look at why the Edinburgh Fringe doesn’t sit comfortably within the established mechanisms of investment in the cultural sector, and a new way may be found to give it investment and support. Edinburgh is a city that has given huge recognition to new infrastructure and investment in classical music and the classic artforms. 

It would be wonderful to see some validation of the forms of creative expression, such as comedy and street performance, which allow a significant point of access into the arts, and anyone to step into the opportunity to perform. 

Often all that is required is space, a microphone and a story to tell. 

Shona McCarthy, Chief Executive, Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society

North East Scotland leading the way on energy transition

Scotland Office Minister’s visit to focus on clean energy

  • Recently launched Skills Passport allowing workers more flexibility to move between sectors 
  • North East companies shining example of clean energy initiatives and economic growth

Scotland’s clean energy future will be top of the agenda as Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill visits Aberdeenshire and Angus today (Mon) to meet with companies at the cutting edge of the green revolution. 

Minister McNeill will meet with the iconic Scottish brand, Mackie’s, who have invested in sustainable energy through wind turbines, solar panels and biomass projects at their base in Rothienorman, outside Inverurie. 

As part of the UK Government’s commitment to a clean energy future for the North East, the Minister will also visit 3t Training Services in Dyce who are helping to provide training to energy workers looking to transfer their skills and experience in oil and gas into renewables. 

Ahead of her visit, Ms McNeill said: “The UK Government is committed to a clean energy future that helps economic growth and creates skilled jobs. We are already seeing fantastic examples of businesses in the North East who are leading the way and showing that cutting their emissions while continuing to grow go hand in hand. 

“This is an exciting time for the region. With GB Energy being headquartered in Aberdeen, the north east is vital to our clean energy plans. 

“As part of our Plan for Change, the UK Government, alongside the Scottish Government and industry, are working to remove the red tape for our skilled oil and gas workers who are looking to work in clean energy. These people have incredible skills and experience that should be utilised and we are ensuring they are supported through this transition. I’m looking forward to meeting with some of them as well as those helping to train them.” 

Jamie Purves, General Manager at 3t’s Dyce training centre, emphasised the importance of upskilling and industry collaboration in ensuring a smooth energy transition. He said: “The North East has long been a centre of excellence in energy, and we are committed to making sure its workforce continues to thrive as the sector evolves.

“At 3t, we work closely with industry and Government to provide the specialist training and support needed to help energy professionals move seamlessly into renewables. 

“The Skills Passport is a game-changer. It simplifies the transition process and ensures we retain the invaluable expertise developed in oil and gas. This is about securing a sustainable future while creating new opportunities for workers and businesses alike.”

Working alongside the industry and Scottish Government, the UK Government has recently launched the Skills Passport initiative as part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change and clean energy superpower mission. 

Oil and gas workers will be able to access the skills passport online, which will initially help them identify routes into several roles in offshore wind, including construction and maintenance  – before being expanded over the coming year to recognise other pathways from oil and gas into the renewable sector.

This is in addition to Aberdeen being identified as one of four key growth regions in the UK for clean energy. Work is ongoing to identify the skills support needed in their area to deliver clean power by 2030. 

The minister will also meet with Montrose Port, a recent recipient of the Carbon Reduction Award at the Scottish Green Energy awards. The port, which helps service windfarms including Scotland’s largest – SSE’s Seagreen – is currently going through an expansion as demand for renewable projects increases.

Scottish rocket launch boost to get Britain back into space race

A landmark Scottish rocket launch is set to solidify the UK as a European leader in the space sector

  • Landmark Scottish rocket launch set to boost UK’s launching power and make Britain a European space leader
  • £20 million government investment will help to fund the construction and launch of the first UK-manufactured and UK-launched orbital rocket
  • Orbex’s rocket Prime will encourage economic investment and support high-skilled jobs, as part of the Plan for Change

A landmark Scottish rocket launch is set to solidify the UK as a European leader in the space sector, following a £20 million government investment in UK launch company Orbex to build and launch a rocket from Scottish shores.

Tech Secretary Peter Kyle announced the investment yesterday (29th January) at Brussels’ European Space Conference, positioning Britain as a leading international partner and cooperator in Europe’s access to space. The investment will help to fund Orbex’s rocket Prime, the first UK-manufactured and UK-launched orbital rocket.

Prime is set to take off from late 2025 at Scottish spaceport SaxaVord, one of two licensed vertical launch spaceports in Europe. It will catalyse the UK’s position as a leading small satellite manufacturer and global space leader, and support 140 highly paid jobs in the region as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

The investment will contribute to this government’s mission to grow the economy, boosting the UK’s ability to regularly launch rockets into orbit from its shores and attracting launch investment into the UK.

With European demand for satellites up to 2033 forecasted to be worth $50 billion, even 2% of this would bring around $1 billion in revenues for the UK economy alone.

Developing Britain’s launch capabilities is already helping to bring new jobs and economic benefits to communities and organisations across the UK. So far, the Prime project has created more than 140 highly skilled jobs in Forres, with many more anticipated as the company continues to grow.

The launch of Prime will also help to inspire a new generation of British space professionals. By showcasing the pivotal role of Britain in the space age, government is investing now to ensure a sector that is vibrant, innovative, and above all, successful in achieving our goal for the UK to become a leading European provider of small satellite launch.

Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said: “Britain’s impressive toolkit of scientific talent, world class facilities, and unique geography means we stand ready to lead the charge and to work together with our international partners as a key part of the new space revolution in Europe.

“By investing £20 million in this rocket launch, we are not only helping the country to become a leading destination for small satellite launches in Europe but bringing highly skilled jobs and investment to communities and organisations across the UK, as part of our Plan for Change.   

“Supporting Orbex’s launch will also turbocharge the country’s position in the space sector and inspire our next generation of space professionals, who will be able to design, test, build and launch British rockets, carrying British satellites, from British soil.”

Designed to launch satellites into orbit, Prime will benefit from the UK’s latitude, with Scotland’s geographical positioning providing easy access to valuable polar orbits.

The British-built Prime is also Europe-leading in its pioneering approach to sustainability.  It is poised to become the first in a new generation of ultra green launch systems, powered by renewable bio-propane fuel, which cuts carbon emissions significantly compared to other similarly sized rockets being developed elsewhere around the world.

The rocket is also designed to be re-useable. Upon returning to Earth, what does not burn up harmlessly in the atmosphere will be recovered and components will be refurbished and reused in future projects.    

Britain is already a key player in the satellite industry, with Glasgow building more satellites than any other city in Europe.

Dr Paul Bate CEO UK Space Agency said: “Space is a fast-growing global industry and there is a real opportunity for the UK to play a greater role now than ever before. This new government investment is not just about launching a rocket, but building a more prosperous future for all, powered by space technology.

“Orbex is a highly innovative company that can serve customers in the UK, Europe and beyond with its Prime launch vehicle, create hundreds of high skilled jobs in Scotland and inspire a new generation to reach for the stars. We will work closely with them as we countdown to launch, continue to develop our national space capabilities, and strengthen our international partnerships.”

Scotland Office Minister, Kirsty McNeill, said: “It’s an exciting time for the Scottish space sector and this £20 million investment from the UK government in Orbex will help Scotland maintain our position as a leader as we look forward to the first satellite launch later this year.

“This important industry is playing a vital role in our Plan for Change, helping economic growth and employing thousands of people in good quality jobs, often in small towns and rural communities, across the country.”

Phillip Chambers, CEO of Orbex, said: “This first of a kind investment by the UK government demonstrates its confidence in the UK’s space rocket manufacturing and launch sector and is an exciting start to the opening of our Series D fundraising.

“We are entering the final preparations to deliver the most flexible and environmentally sustainable launch services to the global satellite industry.

“This investment paves the way not only for us to launch our first rocket this year but also to develop a larger rocket to enable us to compete in the European Launcher Challenge. These development goals are crucial to our longer-term development.”

UK Government ‘unleashes offshore wind revolution’

New measures will unlock up to £30 billion investment in homegrown clean power as permissions for new offshore wind projects are streamlined

Up to thirteen major offshore wind projects have been unlocked as the Government announced measures to accelerate the construction of offshore infrastructure.

Inheriting outdated and archaic infrastructure restrictions that slowed and jammed the building of offshore clean energy projects, Ministers are streamlining the consenting process to accelerate their construction. As set out in the Chancellor’s growth speech, this will hasten the delivery of vital infrastructure projects and unlock growth as part of the Government’s Plan for Change, while protecting nature and the environment.

Together, the unlocked projects will generate up to 16GWs of electricity – almost equivalent to the electricity generated by all of the country’s gas power plants last year – and create thousands of good jobs in the offshore wind sector, potentially spurring £20-30bn of investment in homegrown clean power.

These changes will allow the Government to designate new Marine Protected Areas or extend existing Marine Protected Areas to compensate for impacts to the seabed caused by offshore wind development.

This will prevent delays that have previously resulted from insufficient environmental compensation being agreed, while protecting the marine environment and contributing to our commitment to protect 30% of our seas for nature by 2030.

Marine Minister Emma Hardy said: “Under the Government’s Plan for Change, we are committed to boosting growth and making Britain a clean energy superpower while defending our important marine habitats.

“These changes show we can make significant progress in expanding homegrown British clean power in a way that protects vulnerable sea life.”

Energy Minister Michael Shanks said: “Offshore wind will be the backbone of delivering clean power by 2030 as we enter a new era of clean electricity.

“As part of the Government’s Plan for Change, today’s announcement will help unlock crucial offshore wind projects that will boost our energy security, protect billpayers from volatile fossil fuel markets, and help make the UK a clean energy superpower.”

Any new designations of Marine Protected Areas will follow the existing process required under legislation, and will include consulting other affected industries and communities.

The new or extended Marine Protected Areas will protect a range of marine habitats, with the cost of their designation and management funded by offshore wind developers through the Marine Recovery Fund.

This follows the announcement that the Government’s forthcoming Planning and Infrastructure Bill will unlock much-needed infrastructure projects whilst supporting nature recovery, and targeted changes to the management of underwater noise will fast-track the UK to deliver a clean power system by 2030.

Brexit cost: higher energy bills and lower investment

Scottish Government calls for closer energy links with Europe

The Scottish Government is calling for closer co-operation with Europe to help lower energy bills and boost investment.

Ahead of upcoming UK Government talks with the EU the Scottish Government has published a report, identifying  a number of opportunities to more closely align with the European Union on energy matters.

These include:

  • accelerating the adoption of more efficient UK-EU electricity trading arrangements to bring down energy costs for consumers
  • linking the UK and EU Emissions Trading Schemes (ETS) to help reduce costs and barriers to trade

Estimates from the UK energy industry predict that unless the UK moves toward closer cooperation with the EU on energy and climate, it may lead to additional costs of up to £10billion in 2024-25, through higher energy bills and lower Treasury revenues.

The Scottish Government’s wants Scotland to be an EU member state, however the report published today sets out immediate actions which would rebuild closer collaboration with the EU on energy and climate matters and offset some of the damage caused by Brexit.

Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin said: “As we approach the fifth anniversary of Brexit, the costs to the people of Scotland are becoming ever clearer.

“The best future for Scotland is to be a member state of the EU. But we will always be a voice for closer co-operation with our fellow Europeans – in particular around issues which impact us all such as lowering energy bills and driving up investment in renewables.

“This paper highlights the key areas where working together is vital for achieving our shared ambitions – driving economic growth, reducing costs, strengthening energy security and substantially contributing to our shared climate goals.

“We have a pivotal role to play and stand ready to work collaboratively with the UK Government and wider partners to re-build a closer relationship with Europe in this space.”

Read the Closer energy and climate cooperation with the EU report

Energy UK Explains: the cost of the UK-EU relationship for energy – Energy UK

Oxbridge to become Europe’s Silicon Valley?

Chancellor unveils new plans to deliver the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor that will boost the UK economy by up to £78 billion by 2035

  • Rachel Reeves will today vow to go ‘further and faster’ to deliver the government’s Plan for Change to kick start economic growth and put more pounds in people’s pockets.
  • Chancellor to unveil plans to unleash the potential of the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor that will add up to £78 billion to the UK economy according to industry experts, catalysing growth of UK science and technology.
  • Comes after Chancellor last week announced National Wealth Fund and Office for Investment will take new approaches to spur regional growth across the UK.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves will today vow to go “further and faster” to kick start the economy, as she unveils new plans to deliver the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor that will boost the UK economy by up to £78 billion by 2035 according to industry experts.

In a speech in Oxfordshire, the Chancellor will tell regional and business leaders that economic growth is the number one mission of this government and its Plan for Change. She will declare that Britain’s economy has “huge potential” and is at the “forefront of some of the most exciting developments in the world like artificial intelligence and life sciences.”

She will back the redevelopment of Old Trafford and will review the Green Book – the government’s guidance on appraisal – in order to support decisions on public investment across the country, including outside London and the Southeast.

The speech comes after the Chancellor last week announced a new approach for the National Wealth Fund (NWF) and the Office for Investment (OfI) to work with local leaders to build pipelines of incoming investment and projects linked to regional growth priorities. This includes the NWF trialling Strategic Partnerships in Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, West Midlands, and Glasgow City Region and the OfI piloting an approach in the Liverpool City Region and the North East Combined Authority to connect their regions to central government and industry expertise in order to unlock private investment.

Reeves will say “low growth is not our destiny, but that economic growth will not come without a fight. Without a government that is on the side of working people. Willing to take the right decisions now to change our country’s course for the better.”

The Chancellor is expected to say: “Britain is a country of huge potential. A country of strong communities, with local businesses at their heart.

“We are the forefront of some of the most exciting developments in the world like artificial intelligence and life sciences. We have great companies based here delivering jobs and investment in Britain.

“And we have fundamental strengths – in our history, our language, and our legal system – to compete in a global economy.

“But for too long, that potential has been held back. For too long, we have accepted low expectations, accepted stagnation and accepted the risk of decline. We can do so much better.

“Low growth is not our destiny. But growth will not come without a fight. Without a government that is on the side of working people. Willing to take the right decisions now to change our country’s course for the better.

“That’s what our Plan for Change is about. That is what drives me as Chancellor. And it is what I’m determined to deliver.”

In her speech the Chancellor will announce:

  • The Environment Agency has lifted its objections to a new development around Cambridge that could unlock 4,500 new homes and associated community spaces such as schools and leisure facilities as well as office and laboratory space in Cambridge City Centre. This was only possible as a result of the government working closely with councils and regulators to find creative solutions to unlock growth and address environmental pressures.
  • That the government has agreed for water companies to unlock £7.9bn investment for the next 5 years to improve our water infrastructure and provide a foundation for growth. This includes nine new reservoirs, such as the new Fens Reservoir serving Cambridge and the Abingdon Reservoir near Oxford.
  • Confirming funding towards better transport links in the region including funding for East-West Rail, with new services between Oxford and Milton Keynes this year and upgrading the A428 to reduce journey times between Milton Keynes and Cambridge.
  • Prioritisation of a new Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital as part of the New Hospitals Programme bringing together Cambridge University, Addenbrookes Hospital and Cancer Research UK.
  • Support for the development of new and expanded communities in the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor and a new East Coast Mainline station in Tempsford, to expand the region’s economy.
  • That she welcomes Cambridge University’s proposal for a new large scale innovation hub in the city centre. As the world’s leading science and tech cluster by intensity, Cambridge will play a crucial part in the government’s modern Industrial Strategy.
  • A new Growth Commission for Oxford, inspired by the Cambridge model, to review how best we can unlock and accelerate nationally significant growth for the city and surrounding area.
  • Appointment of Sir Patrick Vallance as Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor Champion to provide senior leadership to ensure the Government’s ambitions are delivered. 

The Chancellor is expected to say: “Oxford and Cambridge offer huge economic potential for our nation’s growth prospects.

“Just 66 miles apart these cities are home to two of the best universities in the world two of the most intensive innovation clusters in the world and the area is a hub for globally renowned science and technology firms in life sciences, manufacturing, and AI.

“It has the potential to be Europe’s Silicon Valley. The home of British innovation.

“To grow, these world-class companies need world-class talent who should be able to get to work quickly and find somewhere to live in the local area. But to get from Oxford to Cambridge by train takes two and a half hours.

“There is no way to commute directly from towns like Bedford and Milton Keynes to Cambridge by rail. And there is a lack of affordable housing across the region.

“Oxford and Cambridge are two of the least affordable cities in the UK. In other words, the demand is there but there are far too many supply side constraints on economic growth in the region.”

Designed to take advantage of the region’s unique strengths and potential, the announcements are further evidence of the government’s modern Industrial Strategy in action as it seeks to create the right conditions to increase investment in our leading growth sectors like life sciences, artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing.

She will add: “Taken together, these announcements show that for the first time a government is providing real leadership to deliver this project with a clear strategy for the entire region backed by funding for the housing and infrastructure we so badly need.“

The speech comes after the Chancellor last week announced a package of investment reforms to spur regional growth across the UK.

Rachel Reeves set out a new approach for the National Wealth Fund (NWF) and the Office for Investment (OfI) to work with local leaders to build pipelines of incoming investment and projects linked to regional growth priorities.

Putting local knowledge and leadership at the forefront, there will be tailored strategies for each region to ensure investment matches local needs and drives sustainable growth.

Putting the government’s Plan for Change into action, the Chancellor set out that the goal is to harness growth everywhere to rebuild Britain and usher in a decade of national renewal. Measures included the NWF trialling Strategic Partnerships in Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, West Midlands, and Glasgow City Region and the OfI piloting an approach in the Liverpool City Region and the North East Combined Authority to connect their regions to central government and industry expertise in order to unlock private investment.

Science Minister, Lord Patrick Vallance said: “The UK has all the ingredients to replicate the success of Silicon Valley or the Boston Cluster but for too long has been constrained by short termism and a lack of direction.

“This government’s Plan for Change will see an end to that defeatism. I look forward to working with local leaders to fulfil the Oxford-Cambridge corridor’s potential by building on its existing strengths in academia, life sciences, semiconductors, AI and green technology amongst others.

“Together we will build the infrastructure and partnerships needed to join up this region’s academia, investors and business so that we can boost growth, deliver innovations and create new jobs that improve all our lives.”

Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander said: “Well connected communities are a cornerstone for growth. East West Rail will not only provide better links and lasting benefits to Oxford and Cambridge, but to all the surrounding areas.

“I’m also delighted to announce a brand new station at Tempsford, which will be game changing for the region – allowing a new community and businesses to grow, unlocking faster and smoother access to opportunities, and delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change.”

S2G4KH Starling murmuration at RSPB Ham Wall, Avalon Marshes, Somerset

Responding to Rachel Reeves’ speech today on economic growth Roger Mortlock, CPRE countryside charity chief executive, said:

On airport expansion and the Lower Thames Crossing 

‘The single biggest threat to the countryside is climate change. If the government expands Heathrow, Luton, City and Gatwick airports, the increase in carbon emissions will make a mockery of its commitment to reaching net zero by 2030.   

‘Airport expansion will do nothing to boost UK growth. There has been no net increase in air travel for business purposes or in jobs in air transport since 2007. Recent research from the New Economic Foundation indicates that airport expansion will drive significant tourism revenue abroad, not bring it to the UK. To create the jobs of the future we need investment in low-carbon industries and transport, not more unsustainable expansion of the UK’s airports.   

‘CPRE local groups in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, London and Sussex have been at the forefront of campaigns to prevent further airport expansion. If implemented, these proposals would have a devastating impact on some of the UK’s most valuable agricultural land, vital wildlife habitats and green spaces close to millions of people’s homes.’

On the Lower Thames Crossing 

‘The proposed Lower Thames Crossing would also drive-up levels of unsustainable travel at a time when funding should be directed into sustainable public transport instead. CPRE Kent has highlighted how the crossing’s environmental and economic impacts on the local area would far outweigh any supposed benefits.’

On zonal planning reforms 

‘We welcome the government’s plan to support the construction of more homes close to existing transport hubs, particularly in our towns and cities. Provided that they are genuinely affordable and built on brownfield land, these homes could help unlock growth by providing sustainable places to live close to where people already live, work and go to school. 

‘Building more homes close to transport hubs must not be allowed to undermine the Green Belt, one of this country’s most successful spatial protections with huge potential to help address the climate and nature emergencies.’   

On the planning regime for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects 

‘It’s clear we’ve got to build a clean energy grid fit for the future but the best way to achieve this is with local communities involved from the start.  

‘To speed up the planning system, the government should deliver on its commitment to fund hundreds of new planning officers. 

‘The UK could learn from countries such as Ireland and Australia, which involve communities in decision making from the beginning, reducing the need for lengthy and expensive legal processes without eroding democracy. For everyone’s sake, we should be building consensus, not dismissing people with real ideas and solutions as ‘blockers’.

Pension reforms to go further to unlock billions to drive growth and boost working peoples’ pension pots

  • Prime Minister and Chancellor to tell leading CEOs that Britain is back and open for business.
  • Changes to pension rules will allow trapped surplus funds to be invested in the wider economy, fuelling economic growth.
  • Move is part of government action to remove blockages that are stopping growth – from regulation to planning processes.

Working people and businesses are set to benefit from new rules that will give more flexibility over how occupational defined benefit pension schemes are managed, as the government continues to remove blockages that are inhibiting its growth agenda that will improve lives of working people across the UK. 

Hosting a meeting with leaders of Britain’s biggest businesses in the City of London today (Tuesday 28 January), the Prime Minister and the Chancellor will set out the details of changes and tell some of the country’s leading CEOs that Britain is back and open for business.

At the roundtable, the PM and Chancellor will outline how restrictions will be lifted on how well-funded, occupational defined benefit pension funds that are performing well will be able to invest their surplus funds. 

This follows action taken by the government last week to bring a renewed focus on growth from some of the UK’s biggest regulators, a shake-up to legal challenges on planning applications, and new “brownfield passports” to speed up housing in commuter hotspots.

Prime Minister, Keir Starmer said: “The number one mission of my government is to secure growth, drive higher living standards for everyone, and get more money into people’s pockets.

“To achieve the change our country needs requires nothing short of rewiring the economy. It needs creative reform, the removal of hurdles, and unrelenting focus. Whether it’s how public services are run, regulation or pension rules, my government will not accept the status quo.

“Today’s changes will unlock billions of investment, pushing forward in delivering my Plan for Change.”

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said: “I know this government and businesses are united on growth being the top priority for our economy, which is why I am fighting every day to tear down the biggest barriers to growth, taking on regulators, planning processes and opposition to this urgent mission.“

The Prime Minister and Chancellor will tell CEOs from some of the UK’s most successful companies that that the government is seeking to create the best possible conditions for the private sector to thrive.

They will promise to work in partnership with businesses, to deliver high-quality jobs across the country, and the economic growth that will fund the schools, hospitals and roads that we all rely on.

Pension trustees and the sponsoring employers could then use this money to increase the productivity of their businesses – to boost wages and drive growth or unlock more money for pension scheme members. 

High growth and more productive businesses boost the size of the economy which in turn will fund our vital public services.

This more efficient approach demonstrates that the government has been listening to business, and will give businesses more flexibility, allowing trapped surplus funds to be invested into the wider UK economy, or given to scheme members as additional benefits.

Where trustees agree to share a portion of scheme surplus with a sponsoring employer, the employer may choose to invest these funds in their core business, for example to purchase equipment or supplies, and/or provide additional benefits to members of the pension scheme.

Approximately 75% of schemes are currently in surplus, worth £160 billion, but restrictions have meant that businesses have struggled to invest them.

These reforms build on the Chancellor’s Mansion House reforms which will create pension megafunds as part of the biggest set of pension reforms in decades, unlocking billions of pounds of investment in exciting new businesses and infrastructure and local projects.     

Over £1.1 trillion is held by pension funds in the UK and defined contribution pension schemes are set to manage £800 billion worth of assets by the end of the decade. This Government is determined to encourage these pension funds to deliver investment and drive economic growth – which is the only way to make people better off.    

Jonathan Lipkin, Director of Policy, Strategy & Innovation at the Investment Association said: “Unlocking surplus capital from defined benefit schemes has the potential to both boost UK growth by opening up investment opportunities for companies and their stakeholders, as well as the possibility of higher pensions for scheme members. 

“With around £1.1 trillion in assets, defined benefit schemes already make a significant contribution to the funding of the UK economy and public services. 

With the right guardrails in place, the government’s proposals could help channel more funding into the economy, by enabling schemes to invest more widely and take on greater risk, while allowing for members to receive an uplift to pension benefits.

Zoe Alexander, Director of Policy and A2dvocacy at the Pensions and Lifetime Saving Association, said: “The PLSA backs surplus release, with the right protections in place to ensure member benefits are secure. 

“Surpluses could be used to increase DB scheme benefits or could be redirected to fund contributions to sponsoring employers’ defined contribution workplace schemes.

“Lowering the legislative threshold for allowing returns of surplus could potentially encourage trustees, in conjunction with their employers, to adopt a more ambitious mindset and take on slightly riskier investment strategies for their DB assets, including greater investment in UK assets.”

Patrick Heath-Lay, Chief Executive Officer for The People’s Pension, said: “It is positive news to see the government is looking at the pension industry as a whole. This will help unlock more of the £2.9trillion that is held in UK pension savings, to benefit savers and the economy alike.

“We look forward to other pension schemes following our plans and outlining how they will invest in private markets.”

The roundtable discussion will focus on the government’s partnership approach to growth with business, including how regulation can better support the Growth Mission, and the role of business in achieving the UK’s ambitions in AI which the Prime Minister unveiled earlier this month. Every regulator has a role to play in the Growth Mission and the Chancellor is hosting a series of roundtables with the 17 regulators that the Prime Minister wrote to in December, to discuss their proposals to support growth in the coming year. 

The meeting with CEOs comes days after the Chancellor’s return from the World Economic Forum, where she pitched Britain’s investment credentials and let global business leaders know that the UK is open for business again.

She championed early reforms to planning, pensions, and regulation that make it easier to do business in Britain and remove barriers investors from overseas face.

On Wednesday, the Chancellor will make a speech where she will set out plans to push through further planning reforms to get Britian building again, rip up regulatory barriers so we can encourage more investment into the UK and announcements to boost trade and investment.

The government will set out the details of the surplus policy in its response to the Options for Defined Benefits consultation, due this Spring.

UK Government to ‘clean up communities’ with deposit return scheme for plastic bottles and cans

The Westminster Government has today (Monday 27 January) pledged to end the throwaway society and clean up Britain, as it implements legislation for the deposit return scheme for drinks containers in England and Northern Ireland. 

Once the scheme launches in October 2027, consumers will have a financial incentive to return empty containers to a collection point, such as at their local supermarket, so that the bottle or can will be recycled. 

Used in more than 50 countries worldwide as a common-sense means of encouraging people to recycle more single-use bottles and cans, a DRS sees people being paid back for returning the container.  

Countries such as Germany, Sweden and the Republic of Ireland have successfully implemented schemes, ensuring valuable materials are collected, recycled and made back into new drinks containers – a truly circular approach easily grasped by the public. The average return rate for European countries with a DRS is 90%, according to global eNGO Reloop, with Germany showing the best results at 98%. 

Introducing such a scheme in England, Northern Ireland and Scotland is a simple yet hugely effective way of addressing problems with rubbish building up on our streets and in our rivers and oceans, while also ensuring the public gets money back on their bottle.  

Across England, Northern Ireland and Scotland, consumers buy an estimated 30 billion single-use drinks containers each year – including 12 billion plastic drinks bottles and 13 billion drinks cans. An estimated 6.5 billion single-use drinks bottles and cans per year go to waste rather than being recycled, with many ending up littered. Research from the Marine Conservation Society shows 97% of surveyed beaches were polluted with drinks-related items in 2023. 

Encouraging everyone to get involved in recycling, the DRS will be introduced in October 2027, with 150ml to three-litre single-use drinks containers made from plastic and metal included in the scheme. 

Delivering these reforms and driving investment in the recycling sector delivers on the Government’s Plan for Change through kickstarting growth, ensuring economic stability, greater efficiency, and jobs fit for the future. 

Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh said: This Government will clean up Britain and end the throwaway society.  

“This is a vital step as we stop the avalanche of rubbish that is filling up our streets, rivers and oceans and protect our treasured wildlife. Turning trash into cash also delivers on our Plan for Change by kickstarting clean growth, ensuring economic stability, more resilient supply chains, and new green jobs.

Northern Ireland’s Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir said: “I have ambitious goals to protect our climate, drive green growth and reduce unnecessary waste. The creation of a Deposit Return Scheme plays a key part in delivering those goals. 

“The introduction of the new parliamentary regulations is a significant step in that process and signals our commitment to move forward together to make those ambitions a reality.

“New legislation for England and Northern Ireland has now come into force, enabling the appointment of the scheme administrator – known as the Deposit Management Organisation – in April 2025. This will be a not-for-profit, industry-led body responsible for the administration and day-to-day running of the scheme.    

With Scotland’s own regulations also progressing, this marks a major step forward for the introduction of the scheme across the three nations.   

The three governments will ensure the scheme is implemented effectively, working closely with businesses to provide the infrastructure and investment to make it a success.   

The Scottish Government first announced it’s intentions to introduce our own Deposit Return Scheme back in September 2017, but plans were scuppered. Holyrood has yet to comment on the UK Government’s announcement this morning.

Allison Ogden-Newton OBE, Chief Executive of environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, said: “A Deposit Return Scheme really is a silver bullet that will get plastic drinks bottles and aluminium cans out of our parks, off our streets and away from our rivers and seas.  

“Depressingly we litter, burn or bury millions of drinks containers each and every day. This legislation will end all that, save the taxpayer millions in clean-up costs and give recycling a real shot in the arm.  

“Backed and paid for by producers, this method of retrieval and recycling is tried and tested the world over so at Keep Britain Tidy we are putting out the bunting that this government is committed to make it happen, for us all.”

Stephen Moorhouse, Vice President and General Manager of Coca-Cola Europacific Partners GB Business Unit, said: “We’ve been supportive of launching a DRS across the UK for a number of years as they are a proven way of increasing recycling, reducing waste and tackling litter.

“Therefore, we welcome the clarity provided by the regulation for England and Northern Ireland and are encouraged by recent developments that will ensure an aligned scheme with Scotland, despite wider challenges around a UK-wide approach. 

“Delivering to the timelines will be challenging but achievable, and now is the time for industry to roll up its sleeves to create a well-designed system that works for businesses, shoppers and the environment.”

Association of Convenience Stores chief executive James Lowman said: “We are pleased to have certainty on the DRS regulations so local shops can start to prepare for October 2027 and our communities can realise the benefits of reduced litter and higher quality recycled materials.  

“Now the real work begins to make the deposit return scheme a success through cross-industry partnership and a planned network of return points that work for customers.”

Sandy Luk, Chief Executive at the Marine Conservation Society, said: “Today marks a fantastic win for our seas, as MPs voted in favour of a deposit return scheme in England and Northern Ireland.

“With plans already in motion in Scotland and the Welsh Government exploring an ambitious scheme to include reuse, this is a great step towards schemes starting across the UK in October 2027.  

“Last year, 97% of surveyed UK beaches were polluted with bottles and cans, posing threat to marine life like seabirds and seals. Deposit return schemes will not only boost recycling and move us towards a circular economy where nothing is thrown away but also significantly reduce this kind of beach pollution.  

“We’re excited to support governments and industry in launching these schemes as soon as possible.”

Hitting this milestone is another big step forward for the Government’s collection and packaging reforms, which together will support 21,000 new jobs and stimulate more than £10 billion of investment in recycling over the next decade. 

The action to clean up Britain doesn’t end there – there is more to come as the Government moves to ensure the throwaway society is ended for good.  

Legislation has been laid to ban the sale of single-use vapes from 1 June 2025 and prevent the waste of precious resources – eNGO Material Focus estimates almost five million single-use vapes were either littered or thrown away in general waste every week in 2023.  

In December 2024, the Government moved to stop recycling rates stagnating and the reliance on the burning of household waste by announcing that new waste incinerators will only receive planning approval if they meet strict new local and environmental conditions.  

The Government has also announced that a £15 million government fund will help deliver thousands of tonnes of food from farms which would otherwise go to waste to those who need it most.

Government goes further and faster on planning reform in bid for growth

Chancellor continues ‘bold reform’ of the planning system in England to deliver on the Plan for Change

  • Chancellor reveals new plans for more houses near commuter train stations to kick start economic growth, as government continues its bold reform of the planning system to deliver on the Plan for Change for working people.
  • Sweeping reforms under the Planning and Infrastructure Bill will take an axe to red tape that slows down approval of infrastructure projects and the government will work with Parliamentarians to ensure a smooth and speedy delivery.
  • Chancellor highlights in its first six months the government has already taken 13 planning decisions and approved 9 nationally significant infrastructure projects spanning airports, data centres, energy farms, and major housing developments.

Untapped land near commuter transport hubs will be unlocked to build new housing for working people, as part of ‘bold new steps’ to reform the planning system and unlock growth to deliver win-win outcomes for the country and the economy. The reforms will create secure, high-paying jobs and deliver major infrastructure faster to bolster public services and lower bills.

Ahead of the Chancellor’s speech next week on economic growth, the government has today announced how it will go further and faster to deliver Plan for Change milestones of 1.5 million new homes over five years and 150 decisions on major infrastructure projects by the end of the Parliament.

It follows the ambitious reforms unveiled by the Chancellor in July and delivered by the Deputy Prime Minister at the end of last year through publication of the overhauled National Planning Policy Framework.

The government’s next steps on planning reform include streamlining a set of national policies for decision making to guide planning decisions taken by local authorities and promote housebuilding in key areas.

In a major new growth push, the government will ensure that when developers submit an application for acceptable types of schemes in key areas – such as in high potential locations near commuter transport hubs – that the default answer to development is ‘yes’.

This will unlock more housing at a greater density in areas central to local communities, boosting the government’s number one mission to grow the economy. These measures will transform communities, with more shops and homes nearer to the transport hubs that working people rely on day in day out.

As part of these measures, the government will streamline decisions on critical infrastructure projects by slashing red tape in the planning system which is holding up projects. That means looking again at the input from expert bodies who developers are required to consult – and replacing the current systems of environmental assessment to deliver a more effective and streamlined system that reduces costs and delays for developers, whilst still protecting the environment.

The Chancellor also revealed today that she is championing a regeneration project around Old Trafford in Manchester that will see new housing, commercial and public space as a shining example of the bold pro-development model that will drive growth across the region, with authorities exploring setting up a mayoral development corporation body to redevelop the area. 

The government is also working with Greater Manchester to release growth-generating land around transport hubs through local development orders, such as around Castleton Station, with the potential for this innovative use of existing powers to kickstart building in these sites to be a blueprint for the rest of the country so that every corner of the UK benefits from growth.

The new proposals tackle the dire inheritance head on. Last year homebuilding fell below 200k and permissions reached their lowest for over a decade, which is why the government is taking radical action necessary to reverse this trend and deliver the homes necessary to reach 1.5 million homes over this Parliament.

This government is turning the page on the decline and decay of the past and choosing growth with a significant number of planning decisions already made by Ministers since July. This includes 13 planning decisions taken by Ministers over 90% of which within the target timeframe, and 9 nationally significant infrastructure projects approved, collectively spanning airports, data centres, solar farms and major housing developments such as the Expansion of London City Airport, a data centre in Buckinghamshire and a new M&S store in Oxford Street, London.  

The government has committed to making 150 decisions on these major economic infrastructure applications over this Parliament, more than doubling the decisions made in the previous Parliament and more than 130 made since 2011.

This will unlock the growth necessary to deliver win-win outcomes for the country and the economy – creating stable and high-paying jobs, building more affordable homes, and delivering critical infrastructure faster to bolster public services and lower bills – while improving the environment where it matters most.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said: “I am fighting every single day in our mission to kick start the economy, deliver on our Plan for Change, and make working people better off. That includes avenues that others have shied away from.  

“Too often the answer to new development has been “no”. But that is the attitude that has stunted economic growth and left working people worse off. We need to do things differently and that journey began as soon as I started at the Treasury in July. These are our next steps and I can say for certain, there is more to come.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Housing, Angela Rayner said: “From day one I have been clear that bold action is needed to remove the blockers who put a chokehold on growth. That’s why we are putting growth at the heart of our planning system.

“Growth means higher wages, better living standards, families raising their children in safer homes, and the next generation taking their first steps onto the housing ladder.

“This year we will go even further to make the dream of homeownership a reality for millions and fix the housing crisis we inherited for good – getting more shovels in the ground to build the homes and vital infrastructure that our communities so desperately need.”

Growth is the number one mission of the Labour Government’s Plan for Change, so we can put more money in people’s pocket. Today the Chancellor is setting out further action on the government’s growth mission by announcing the following: 

Planning 

The Planning and Infrastructure Bill will provide the powers to accelerate the infrastructure and homes needed to deliver on the government’s ambitions – and fast track critical infrastructure such as windfarms, power plants, and major road and rail projects. Today the government is confirming for the first time that the Bill will be introduced in Spring and we will work with Parliamentarians to ensure a smooth and speedy delivery.

Further detail on the Bill is being published today in a working paper on streamlining decisions on nationally significant infrastructure projects, including reducing the burden on developers by making consultation requirements more proportionate, strengthening statutory guidance to ensure they are clear over what is and is not required when submitting planning applications, and ensuring that National Policy Statements are updated at least every five years to give more certainty to developers, speeding up decisions. 

Previous working papers have already set out reforms to the operation of planning committees, and an overhaul of the way developers can discharge their environmental obligations so that they can crack on with building.

The Chancellor is today also announcing reform to the statutory consultee system, which requires developers to consult local communities and expert bodies when making planning decisions. This often means too many organisations consulted on too wide a range of issues, clogging up much-needed development.

Today the government has declared a moratorium on any new statutory consultees and the Chancellor and the Deputy Prime Minister will review in the coming weeks the existing arrangements to make sure they meet this Government’s ambitions for growth.

This follows changes announced last week to the rules around challenging major infrastructure projects through the courts – stopping blockers getting in the way of the Government’s Plan for Change and getting nuclear plants, trainlines and windfarms built quicker. Current excessive rules mean unarguable cases can be bought back to the courts three times.

This will be overhauled, with just one attempt at legal challenge for hopeless cases that would previously have caused much more delay.

Environment

The government is also reforming environmental impact assessments, which have strayed from their original purpose of supporting decision making and have become voluminous and costly documents that too often support legal challenges rather than the environment.

They will be replaced by Environmental Outcome Reports which will be simpler and much clearer, which will support growth by saving developers time and money, whilst still protecting the environment. The government will publish a roadmap for the delivery of these new Environment Outcomes Reports in the coming months.  

This follows a working paper on development and nature published by the government before Christmas setting out a new approach that will turbocharge the delivery of housing and infrastructure while securing positive environmental outcomes.

Developers will be able to pay into the Nature Restoration Fund which will allow them to discharge relevant environmental obligations for protected sites and species and focus on building, safe in the knowledge that appropriate action will be taken to support nature’s recovery.

Major infrastructure

A working paper is being published setting out the government’s plan for its 10 Year Infrastructure Strategy, which will be focussed on infrastructure’s role in enabling resilient growth, delivering clean energy by 2030 and net zero by 2050 while securing the growth benefits of the transition, and improving public services.

The working paper seeks industry views as part of the government’s continued consultation on the development of the strategy which will be published in late Spring.

Jennie Daly, CEO of Taylor Wimpey said: “We continue to be impressed by the speed with which the government has gripped the need for planning reform to deliver much needed new housing supply. New high-quality housing and the infrastructure it brings are essential drivers of economic growth. 

“We welcome the commitment from the government to introduce the Planning and Infrastructure Bill as a priority in the spring, and we look forward to supporting the promised consultation work on reforming the planning system to expedite decisions and overcome local barriers to growth.”

Mark Reynolds, Mace Group Executive Chairman and Co-Chair of the Construction Leadership Council said: “When the government and the Construction sector work in partnership we can unlock growth of up to 2% of GDP. The simplification and streamlining of the planning system is a significant contributor to this so the announcements today are a welcome development which could deliver £2 billion per year in savings once fully implemented.

“In addition the upcoming publication of the 10 year National Infrastructure Strategy is an opportunity to set out plans for ambitious growth and chart a direction for the industry, instilling confidence in businesses to invest in skills, innovation and deliver profitable growth, we look forward to contributing to its success.”

Neil Jefferson, CEO of Home Builders Federations said: “Identifying more land for development and removing the treacle from the planning process that delays applications is essential if we are to increase housing supply.

“The swift moves to address these blocks in the planning system are very welcome and will pay dividends if the other constraints on housing supply can be tackled. Housing delivery is dependent upon a range of factors, of which planning is a major one, and these changes underline the government’s commitment to increasing supply.”

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham said: “With our devolved powers we’re mobilising the whole Greater Manchester system to lock in growth for the next decade and reap the rewards for our city-region and UK plc.

“The project around Old Trafford represents the biggest opportunity for urban regeneration this country has seen since London 2012 and is a key part of our 10-year plan to turbocharge growth across Greater Manchester.

“We look forward working with the Government on moving freight away from the site around Old Trafford to new locations to open up capacity our rail network, and unlock massive regeneration potential – delivering benefits across the whole of the North.”

As part of its ‘relentless focus’ to get Britain building and achieve the ambition to build 1.5 million new homes over five years, the government has already:  

  • Overhauled the National Planning Policy Framework, including new and higher mandatory housebuilding targets for councils, a comprehensive modernisation of the Green Belt, and far greater support for growth-supporting development such as labs and datacentres.  
  • Launched a New Homes Accelerator group to unlock thousands of new homes currently in the planning system.  
  • Published a series of working papers on further reforms to the planning system:
    • ‘brownfield passports’, designed to ensure that where planning proposals meet design and quality standards, the default answer to planning permission is ‘yes’,
    • development and nature recovery, detailing a new approach for developers to discharge environmental obligations through payment into a Nature Restoration Fund which then allows them to crack on with building,
    •  planning committees, proposing a national scheme of delegation to speed up the approval process and provide greater certainty to developers.
  • Set up an independent New Towns Taskforce, as part of a long-term vision to create largescale communities of at least 10,000 new homes each.  
  • Awarded £68 million to 54 local councils to unlock housing on brownfield sites.   
  • Awarded £47 million to seven councils to unlock homes stalled by nutrient neutrality rules. 
  • Extended the existing Home Building Fund for this year providing up to £700 million of vital support to SME housebuilders, supporting the delivery of around 12,000 additional homes.
  • Confirmed that government investment in housing will increase to £5 billion for this year, including an extra £500 million in new funding for the Affordable Homes Programme to deliver tens of thousands of new affordable and social homes across the country.

Chancellor unveils plan to ‘turbocharge’ investment across UK

A package of investment reforms to spur regional growth across the country is being announced to attract investment in all corners of the UK

Ahead of her speech next week on economic growth, the Chancellor has announced a new approach across the National Wealth Fund (NWF) and the Office for Investment (OfI), which will work with local leaders across the UK to support places to build pipelines of incoming investment and projects linked to regional growth priorities.

This new approach will put local knowledge and leadership at the forefront, with tailored strategies for each region, ensuring investment matches local needs and drives sustainable growth. Putting the government’s Plan for Change into action, the goal is to harness growth everywhere to rebuild Britain and usher in a decade of national renewal.

The National Wealth Fund will also trial Strategic Partnerships starting in Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, West Midlands, and Glasgow City Region. These partnerships will provide enhanced, hands-on support with tailored commercial and financial advice to help regions develop and secure long-term investment opportunities.

This initiative will play a key role in unlocking investment across sectors such as technology, manufacturing, and green energy, helping to fuel the next wave of economic growth.

This builds on the positive impact the NWF has already had in supporting regional growth. In the last six months, the NWF has created 8,600 jobs and unlocked nearly £1.6 billion in private investment across various sectors, including green technologies, digital infrastructure, and manufacturing.

The news comes the same day as Regional Mayors are set to meet with the Deputy Prime Minister and other ministers from MHCLG, HMT, and DWP in Rotherham to discuss key regional priorities and how government can further support them to achieve their growth ambitions. This meeting will inform the government’s ongoing efforts to align national and local growth strategies and unlock investment opportunities in each region.

On top of this, OfI is working closely with local leaders and industry to turn regional growth plans into commercially attractive investment opportunities. Starting with Liverpool City Region and North East Combined Authorities, the OfI will pilot an approach that connects regions to central government and industry expertise to support them in unlocking private investment.

These initiatives will test how government can work in partnership with regions to see where investment can play a meaningful role in driving growth, which is the best way to improve living standards and put more money in working people’s pockets.

Launching this initiative in Scotland comes in recognition of the nation’s potential to drive forward ambitious projects in support of this government’s growth and clean energy missions.

The government is committed to working in close partnership with the devolved governments through the National Wealth Fund to maximise investment opportunities in Scotland’s cities to deliver growth.

Our cities have huge potential to drive improved living standards and spread opportunities across their wider regions. Bringing the productivity of major cities like Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, and Glasgow to the national average would deliver an extra £33 billion in additional Gross Value Added (GVA) annually, contributing significantly to the government’s Plan for Change economic growth objectives.

The action today comes as the Chancellor returns from Davos, where she has been making the case for investment in the whole of the U.K. Since entering office, the government has been focused on restoring economic stability, which is the foundation of growth, to give businesses the confidence to invest and expand in the UK.

Securing investment is also central to the government’s mission to deliver economic growth which will create jobs, improve living standards, and make communities and families across the country better off as part of our Plan for Change.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves MP said: “At Davos I’ve been telling some of the world’s biggest investors that the U.K. is a safe bet for their investments, whether that’s in London or Leeds.

“And in our mission for growth, it’s critical that we are growing every region’s local economy, that’s why we are doing things differently.

“Those with local knowledge and skin in the game are best placed to know what their area needs, and our transformative reforms will put local leaders at the centre of a network that will connect them with investment opportunities, bringing wealth and jobs to their communities.”

Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner said: “Growth is at the top of this government’s agenda, and we want to see that growth in every region across the country. That means giving local leaders the powers they need to get their local economies moving, which is exactly what we are doing with our Devolution Priority Programme.

“Today I am meeting with England’s regional Mayors to talk about how to realise their communities’ huge potential for growth – because they know their areas best.”

Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds said: “The UK is one of the most connected places in the world to do business, and investors should be in no doubt that Britain is back on the global stage, helping attract investment into the most productive parts of the UK economy.

“Our forthcoming Industrial Strategy will supercharge eight key growth sectors in the UK economy, unleashing the full potential of our cities and regions and giving businesses the certainty they need as we lead the charge for the innovation and jobs of the future.”

Scottish Secretary, Ian Murray said: “It’s fantastic to see that Glasgow has been chosen as one of four areas where the UK Government will develop investment pipelines. The move will see us engage with local leaders and tap into their expertise to find out exactly where we can best put to use support from avenues like the National Wealth Fund and Office for Investment.

“Encouraging regional growth is key to our Plan for Change, to speed up investment in business and industry, creating jobs and opportunity right across the UK.

“The potential for growth in Scotland is phenomenal and we’ll explore every opportunity to maximise that growth, to put more money in people’s pockets and see living standards improved everywhere.”

Further action to drive regional growth will also include a review of the Green Book, the government guidance on value for money, and how it is being used across the public sector to provide objective, transparent advice on public investment across the country. This review will report back at the conclusion of the Spending Review this summer.

There will also be a new senior taskforce, chaired jointly by HMT and MHCLG permanent secretaries, who will work with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority to explore further devolution opportunities in skills, transport, and business support.

The government will expand this engagement to other Mayoral Authorities through senior official working groups, to explore how national government can work with local leaders to ensure they have the appropriate levers available to deliver their Local Growth Plans and unlock economic growth across England.

Mayors are already delivering transformative outcomes, such as Greater Manchester’s Adult Skills Fund, which has supported 17,000 residents in accessing new learning opportunities, and the Bee Network, which is integrating public transport across the region.

This follows the English Devolution White Paper, published at the end of last year, which set out an enhanced devolution framework to ensure strategic authorities have the powers and tools they need to meet local growth ambitions.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire said: “This government knows that the best way to achieve its growth mission is by working with mayors and backing our Local Growth Plans to boost the economy in all parts of the country.

“With the National Wealth Fund based here in the heart of the North, driving forward transformational investments in partnership with local leaders, we will deliver the well-paid jobs and the vibrant, well-connected places our communities need and deserve.”

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham said: “Greater Manchester is growing faster than the UK economy but we have got so much more to give to UK plc.

“The reforms announced today will help us to do just that and go much further and faster in support of the national growth mission.

“We particularly welcome the opportunity to work with Government to review the Green Book and how it is used to steer public investment, as the current approach is not working for the North of England.”

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands said: “This is a great show of faith by the Government in our regions to deliver the growth and high-quality jobs the country needs. The West Midlands is a hotbed of innovation and business talent ready to support the Government’s mission for growth.

“With the Government, I’m focused on delivering growth and with plans for a gigafactory, and three Investment Zones secured, we’re already making progress on creating thousands of new jobs. At the same time I am equipping our people with the skills to succeed in the industries of the future such as advance manufacturing, life sciences and green technology. 

“With this new Strategic Partnership, the West Midlands will be one of the best places to do business, with an economy that creates real opportunities and benefits everyone across our communities.”

Cllr Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council and chair of the Glasgow City Region Cabinet said: “This is welcome recognition of the Glasgow City Region’s role as Scotland’s metro region, a vital motor in delivering prosperity and with a track record of securing and delivering on investment.

“Cities and city regions are the vital engine rooms of local and national economic growth and Glasgow’s selection as one of the four strategic partnerships to work with Government on maximising investment opportunities will, I’m sure, contribute to our ambition to become the most innovative, resilient and inclusive regional economy in the UK.”