A decade of opportunity: Greater Manchester’s growth strategy sets the standard for regional regeneration

When the term “Northern Powerhouse” was first introduced over a decade ago, it signalled a renewed ambition for the North of England. For Greater Manchester, it became the foundation for real change.

Today, the concept has evolved. It’s no longer just about rhetoric; it’s about delivery. Manchester and other northern city-regions have used devolved powers to drive innovation in housing, transport, health and skills. With this latest strategy, the GMCA continues to demonstrate what regional empowerment can achieve when there is a shared vision and capable leadership.

The introduction of metro mayors has been a fundamental enabler of regional transformation. These leaders have the ability to convene stakeholders across local government, business, and civil society, aligning priorities and creating momentum. They can champion local needs in a way that transcends party politics, bringing clarity and continuity to long-term decision-making.

In Greater Manchester, Mayor Andy Burnham has played a pivotal role in setting the tone and ambition for the region. The powers granted through the recent trailblazer devolution deal, including greater control over transport, housing and economic development, have significantly enhanced the city-region’s ability to shape its own destiny.

This isn’t just devolution in theory - it’s devolution in action.

Economic growth alone isn’t enough- it must be inclusive, addressing the inequalities that have long held parts of the region back. The new growth strategy acknowledges this, integrating objectives around health, housing and community wellbeing.

Programmes like Live Well, for example, are showing how investment in preventative health and joined-up services can have a transformative impact on people’s lives. By targeting systemic barriers such as poor transport links, unaffordable housing, and health disparities, Greater Manchester is working to ensure that growth reaches everyone.

This is critical. Economic headwinds, from the cost-of-living crisis to global supply chain disruption, are disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable. A strategy that places social equity alongside economic performance is both morally and economically sound.