Midlands Engine publishes Independent Economic Review

The Midlands Engine has published the first-ever Independent Economic Review (IER) for the region. The IER is the result of a year-long, detailed analysis on the whole Midlands economy over the last decade by the Midland Engine Economic Observatory, delivered by leading economists and academics, together with in-depth insight from over 50 of the region’s businesses.

The Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government and Midlands Engine Champion said:

This report will be a vital resource for the region as it sets out its roadmap for unleashing the Midlands vast economic potential.

This Government is taking every step we can to help ensure that the Midlands economy is protected during this national emergency. As the Midlands Engine Champion around the Cabinet table, I will continue working with the Midlands Engine Partnership and leaders across the region to ensure we level up and realise this region’s standing across the UK and globally.

The IER represents a great milestone for the Midlands Engine Partnership. It is the product of collective effort and investment by partners across the Midlands – providing extensive evidence for targeted action to level up the regional economy.

Despite the current economic uncertainty, the IER is a foundational piece of work that helps us understand the drivers, opportunities and barriers facing our economy. This underpinning evidence provides a platform to work from as we emerge out of the period of economic turbulence caused by the pandemic. The Midlands Engine Economic Observatory’s work therefore continues at pace and will be providing regular updates – reflecting in particular the impact of Covid-19.

Speaking on the publication of the IER, Chairman of the Midlands Engine, Sir John Peace said:

The Midlands is a region to be proud of. It’s a region of huge potential. And it’s a place that 10 million people call home. The IER and subsequent work undertaken by the Observatory is a key illustration of the Midlands Engine partnership working together to address the challenges that our region faces and also act together on the many opportunities that lie ahead. Together we are stronger, together we will unlock the full potential of the Midlands.

Download the full IER and summaries from the Observatory’s webpage: www.midlandsengine.org/observatory