York has topped a list of cities driving economic growth in the 海角视频, but is the only representative from the North of England in the table.
The Demos-PwC Good Growth for Cities Index ranks 50 of the 海角视频’s largest cities outside London based on 12 economic measures that include income, work-life balance, skills and numbers of new businesses. The rankings are based on both a survey of the public and official data.
York tops the Good Growth list after rising from seventh in last year’s table. It is followed by Edinburgh, Bristol and Exeter, with the next best ranked Northern city being Preston at 15th. By contrast, six of the bottom 10 places are cities in the North.
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Emma Suchland, PwC’s regional market leader for the North, said: “Our latest research really highlights just how varied the economic landscape is across the North West, Yorkshire, and the North East - and the unique opportunities each area has to offer. To make the most of these strengths, we need local strategies that play to each region’s advantages. For example, the North East is a global leader in industrial manufacturing, Manchester’s creative and tech sectors are booming, and Yorkshire is fast becoming a top spot for financial and business services outside London.
“For growth to be truly successful, we have to remember how closely economic progress is tied to social wellbeing. People need good jobs, thriving communities, accessible services, reliable transport, and a real sense of wellbeing.
“At the same time, businesses depend on a healthy, skilled workforce, strong infrastructure, and a stable environment to succeed. That’s why local growth plans should bring together investments across all these areas, making sure growth is inclusive and benefits everyone. Achieving this will take ongoing collaboration between local authorities, businesses, and educators.”
York is ranked first out of the 50 cities measured, with high scores on jobs, skills and its high street. Northern towns and cities climbing in the last included Wakefield and Castleford; Hull; and Sheffield.
But Liverpool; Warrington and Wigan; and Huddersfield all fell in this year's table, and the three assessed areas of the North East - Newcastle; Sunderland; and Middlesbrough and Stockton - were all in the bottom 10 of the table.
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The study said that although economic activity grew in the first half of the year, it was anticipated to slow down in the coming months. Brighton, Edinburgh, Manchester and Liverpool are expected to outpace the 海角视频 average growth rate of around 1.2%.
Carl Sizer, chief markets officer at PwC, said: “The cities and regions making the most progress are those that align their sector priorities with local strengths and invest in essentials like housing, transport, digital infrastructure, and skills. They ensure that the priorities of communities, employers, and key institutions are in sync.
“A strong economic identity is crucial, understanding what a place stands for, its strengths, and growth plans is vital for local leaders, investors, businesses, and residents alike. Clarity helps direct decisions, focus efforts, and make a strong case for investment.”