Transport investment most important priority for Northern Powerhouse says new poll

A new poll from Ipsos Mori North commissioned by the UK Northern Powerhouse International Conference and Exhibition has thrown fresh light on people in the North of England’s views on the Northern Powerhouse project. 

82% of respondents stated that ‘transport infrastructure investment within the North’ was one of the most important priorities for the Northern Powerhouse, along with ‘investing in training to develop skills of the local workforce’, when compared to other possibilities. Seven out of ten respondents thought investment in transport links between London and the North is important, showing that local people would prioritise investment between northern cities before further investment between the north and south.  

‘Investing in training to develop the skills of the local workforce’ was seen as equally important amongst those currently in employment and those searching for employment, which emphasises its importance for both the active and non-active workforce. 

Around three quarters thought that ‘local control over setting business rates’ (75%), ‘attracting foreign investment, which will bring new money to the North’ (74%) and ‘local autonomy over planning policy/decisions, which could give local areas more control over undeveloped land’ (76%) are also important. 

The poll results are sure to provide food for thought for delegates and speakers at the UK Northern Powerhouse International Conference and Exhibition on 25-26 February. Supported by all the major LEP’s, as well as CEO’s of major national businesses and international trade delegations, the event will feature talks and interactive sessions from senior representatives from sectors as diverse as retail, transport, logistics, property, tech, energy and finance. 

Moderated by BBC broadcaster John Humphrys, the conference will include a host of influential speakers including keynote speaker Lord Jim O’Neill, as well as Lord Prescott, Ed Cox, director of IPPR North and Sarah Green, director of regions and nations at CBI. They will be joined by a panel of leading industry experts including chief executives from UKTI, Arup, HS2 and Lambert Smith Hampton. 

Infrastructure Intelligence readers can get a discount on their conference and exhibition ticket. Just enter the discount code i-i15% when booking online to receive a 15% discount on the currently quoted prices.

View the conference programme here.

Book a place for UK Northern Powerhouse here.