Got net-zero news, project updates, or product launches to share? Midlands Mayors Unite for Change: Commitment Signed
Attention Net Zero News readers,
The Mayors of the West Midlands and East Midlands have made history by signing an agreement to enhance collaboration between the two regions, aiming to benefit businesses and communities while solidifying the Midlands’ position in the UK’s economic landscape.
Richard Parker, the Mayor of the West Midlands, and Claire Ward, the Mayor of the East Midlands, officially launched the West and East Midlands Compact at an event in Coventry. This agreement signifies a mutual commitment to deeper cooperation between the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).
This collaboration comes at a crucial time for the East and West Midlands, jointly representing a £132.6 billion economy, 147,355 businesses, and a population of 5.2 million. With significant clusters in advanced manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, life sciences, and clean energy, these regions play a vital role in the UK’s industrial landscape at the heart of the country.
The Compact outlines five key areas of focus for joint action, including:
Clusters and Strategic Supply Chains: Strengthening and expanding sustainable industrial clusters and strategic supply chains across both regions.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Attracting and expanding foreign direct investment to create high-quality jobs.
Transport and Infrastructure: Enhancing economic connectivity and infrastructure to support growth and net zero ambitions.
Research and Intelligence: Improving research capabilities in both regions.
Wider Regional Leadership: Providing effective leadership for the wider region.
The action plan associated with the Compact outlines strategies to achieve these objectives, building upon the Midlands’ tradition of collaboration across sectors. By joining forces, both Mayors aim to leverage the regions’ strengths, celebrate their heritage, and pave the way for the future.
Richard Parker expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The Midlands has a rich history of innovation that has had a global impact. By working together, we can drive significant change across the entire region, creating jobs, boosting growth, and enhancing transport links.”
Claire Ward echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of the Compact in addressing shared challenges and driving inclusive growth. She highlighted the power of regional partnerships in attracting investment, strengthening supply chains, and delivering necessary infrastructure.
This collaboration not only showcases strong Mayoral leadership at the regional level but also underscores the potential for innovation and progress when risks and opportunities are shared. The partnership between the East and West Midlands sets the stage for pan-regional working, leveraging unique strengths to shape the future.
As the current Metro Mayors of the region, both Parker and Ward are committed to fostering inclusive, long-term economic growth that will benefit local communities and bolster the UK economy.
Image credit: West Midlands Combined Authority
