Unlocking the North

'Good economic growth in every postcode' is the ambitious slogan being used by the prime minister, Andy Burnham. His big idea is to devolve decision making and spending powers away from Westminster so towns and cities can, in his words “do more, and in doing more build a new economy.” He’s also talked of re-industrialisation. Previous governments have talked of northern powerhouses, and levelling-up. There has been some success notably in Greater Manchester, but when it comes to the imbalanced economic geography of the UK, despite all that talk, little has changed. Overall productivity across the North of England is still lower than in London and the South East. It’s argued that for too long there’s been underinvestment, regional inequality and a lack of opportunity for many communities. If Andy Burnham marks a renaissance for regeneration, then what’s the plan? How do you get good growth in every postcode in the North of England? Evan Davis looks for answers by speaking to business leaders representing less well-connected parts of the region.

Guests:

Susan Hinchcliffe: Former Labour leader of Bradford Council

Finbarr Dowling: Chairman of The Humber Freeport

Henri Murison: Chief Executive at The Northern Powerhouse Partnership

Dave Fishwick: Entrepreneur and Founder of Burnley Savings and Loans

Presenter: Evan Davis

Producers: Nick Holland & Sally Abrahams

Sound: Dave O'Neill & James Beard

Production Coordinator: Kate Morrison

Editor: Matt Willis