Private sector can help deliver devolution, says business group

A 250-strong coalition of Northern businesses has written to the new government and metro mayors, asking for engagement to support the development of regional economic growth plans.

True North comprises organisations from across the region, a significant proportion of which are privately owned and owner-managed businesses delivering commercial success while being socially impactful in their local communities.

Data compiled by the network indicates that these ‘northern stars’ are growing at an average rate of 8.5 per cent year-on-year, outstripping the national average. 

The network is seeking to meet with leaders involved in the devolution process to share best practice examples of public-private partnerships, open up opportunities for collaboration and encourage greater levels of investment into the North’s towns and cities.

The True North network is chaired by Robert White (pictured), CEO of Brabners, Prof Maggie O’Carroll, CEO of The Women’s Organisation, and Michael Hayman, co-founder and chair of Seven Hills.

Writing to leaders, the True North co-chairs said: “We have been encouraged by the government’s focus on accelerating the devolution of power away from central government, towards the regions, and the increased recognition that growth for the whole of the UK is not possible through the overly centralised model of the past.

“What has been missing from much of the conversation is a recognition that economic growth and prosperity cannot be contingent on the public sector alone – particularly in the absence of an abundant public purse. The purpose-led business community is central to the success of the region; to unlocking the pressing need for greater productivity and prosperity in the North; and stands ready to play its part in the design and delivery of the way forward.

“These businesses have the tools to unlock economic growth, they are focused on the long-term, and we believe they can help to drive prosperity throughout the region by driving investment and fostering greater collaboration with regional and central government. However, in the past, they have felt unheard, ignored or have succeeded without having a voice.

“True North aims to be a source of new thinking, a fresh perspective on key growth, innovation and sustainability priorities, and a new delivery model for a more equitable North. As central government and the regions work together on their respective growth plans, we hope they will engage with us and our network of like-minded leaders, who all share the same goal to deliver growth and greater prosperity for the North and the entire UK.”