On 16 January 2018, the North’s Draft Strategic Transport Plan* was launched, outlining how transport connections across the North of England will be transformed by 2050 “to drive growth and close the economic gap between the North and the rest of England.”
Aimed at rebalancing the UK’s economy through a sustained 30-year programme of transport infrastructure investment, the plan could deliver a £100 billion economic boost and 850,000 additional jobs by 2050.
John Cridland, Transport for the North Chairman, says: “The North is a rich, diverse region and home to around 16 million people. We have vibrant communities, buzzing cities, five stunning national parks, an abundance of talent and a wealth of high-performing businesses. Transport for the North’s vision is of a thriving North of England, where modern transport connections drive economic growth and support an excellent quality of life.
“For the first time, civic and business leaders and transport operators are speaking with one voice on transport to make sure the North fulfils its potential. Our plan proposes a revolutionary investment programme that will make it possible to travel to high quality jobs. This is an ambitious programme that will improve our roads and railways, and will also drive a sea change in skills development in the North and ensuring we meet that historic gap in investment.”
Commenting on the plans, Mike Cherry, National Chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses, says that, although this is a long-term plan looking ahead 30 years, SMEs need work to begin without delay.
“Small businesses need a dense, reliable and well-maintained road network to be able to grow and become more productive, so investing in roads and rail is vital. This is an important next step for businesses and communities.”
“It’s critical that small firms are given a chance to secure any procurement opportunities before work starts,” Mr Cherry adds.
At Beavis Morgan, our specialist advisers to SMEs are able to assist with all aspects of business performance, including ensuring that adequate measures are put in place to capitalise on any opportunities whilst protecting the health of your business both now and for the future.
Contact Steve Govey or your usual Beavis Morgan Partner for further information about how we can assist you and your business.