We know cities are important to the national economy, that’s why Greg Clark was appointed Minister for Cities in July last year. But cities are also important to their regional economies. And this is one of the things this year’s Cities Outlook highlights.
Cities are the heart of their regional economies. The 11 cities in the North West are home to 68 percent of the region’s businesses and 72 percent of employment – both large proportions considering they only cover 24 percent of landmass. Similarly, the 18 cities in the Greater South East cover just 16 percent of landmass yet generate 70 percent of wealth and account for 69 percent of those working in highly skilled occupations.
And it’s not just the most successful cities that support their regional economies. Cities like Hull and Doncaster despite having less dynamic private sectors housed, together, 8 percent of businesses located in Yorkshire & Humber, accounted for 10 percent of employment and generated 9 percent of wealth.
In addition, the influence of cities is not simply confined to their urban cores but extends out beyond their physical boundaries. People travel to cities to work – people living outside Bristol travel around 38km to work in the city – but also to shop and enjoy amenities like theatres and restaurants. Business supply chains also extend well beyond city boundaries and their customers are often located elsewhere too.
For more stats and facts see Cities Outlook 2012 and our new Data Tool.
Leave a comment
Be the first to add a comment.