Investment Attraction
Invest in Manchester
Full Credential Description
Greater Manchester faced significant challenges in local governance and public service delivery, particularly in the areas of education, transport, housing, and funding. The region sought greater control over post-16 technical education to better align skills training with local job market needs. Additionally, there was a pressing need to improve public transport systems to match the standards of London, as well as to tackle issues related to housing quality and homelessness.
In response to these challenges, Greater Manchester secured a groundbreaking devolution deal with the UK Government, marking a pivotal shift in local governance. This deal included the establishment of a new partnership board with the Department for Education, aimed at overseeing post-16 technical education and skills. This collaboration is expected to enhance the relevance of vocational qualifications, such as T-Levels and apprenticeships, ensuring they meet the demands of the local labor market. Furthermore, the deal devolved £150 million in brownfield funding, empowering the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) to drive housing development and urban regeneration, with a target of delivering 7,000 homes over the next three years.
The transport sector also saw significant advancements through the deal, which committed to the integration of local rail services into the Bee Network by 2030. This initiative aims to create a seamless public transport experience across buses, trams, and trains, with simplified fares and integrated ticketing. The deal also addressed the need for enhanced safety measures on public transport, including the potential for new legal powers to combat anti-social behavior and fare evasion.
Quantifiable results from the devolution deal include the establishment of a single funding settlement for GMCA, which streamlines financial resources and enhances local decision-making autonomy. This model, akin to those in Scotland and Wales, is expected to reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies and allow for more strategic investment in local priorities. Additionally, the new accountability measures will ensure that the GMCA is held responsible for its decisions, with public reporting against agreed outcome metrics, thereby fostering greater transparency and community engagement.
Overall, the devolution deal represents a significant step forward for Greater Manchester, equipping local leaders with the tools and resources necessary to address the unique challenges faced by the region and improve the quality of life for its residents.