The Yorkshire and Humber and the North East area covers the corner of England from the Midlands up to the Scottish border, neighbouring North West England. It has 8 million people, with Leeds easily the largest centre of economic activity. This region is in a transition from traditional heavy industry industries to more diversified business areas, but it still has a strong manufacturing presence. However, the region has the lowest levels of output per hour in the UK – about 17% below the UK average.
This briefing paper provides an overview of the challenges and opportunities for the North East and Yorkshire and The Humber with a particular focus on productivity. It provides a summary of the key social and economic drivers across both regions, with specific attention paid to the cities and initiatives that are driving growth and development.
Author Kate Penney