Although news from the Northern Powerhouse has been quiet in recent months, Manchester’s own ambitions remain intact, with leaders outlining exactly how the city will break out onto the world stage – and how we can all break out with it.
The introduction of direct flights to America; a central role in the Northern Powerhouse; acting as a poster child for devolution. Manchester’s global ambitions have been anything but subtle over the last few years. Following the recent Greater Manchester Internalisation Strategy (GMIS) launch, it doesn’t look like that’s about to change.
All in Good Time
The GMIS in itself is proof that Manchester has its sights set on something bigger; a framework of action promising £2.2bn to the local economy and in the GMIS is an opportunity for the city and surrounding area to grow independently of the Northern Powerhouse in spite of Brexit.
Any notions of rushing this success have been thwarted, however, with the mantra ‘slow and steady wins the race’ clearly playing on the minds of the public and private sector leaders behind the GMIS. Instead of attempting to elevate Manchester to the rank of global player before the next general election or sooner, the GMIS plots a course for success by 2035. It’s estimated that by this date, Manchester will be able to count itself amongst the greatest cities in the world.
In order to reach this goal on time, the strategy has identified eight key priorities which the region needs to focus on and which will underpin the direction that the GMIS’ big players will take over the next 18 years:
- Acting as a global gateway for the UK and the North
- Becoming a world centre for trade
- Becoming a magnet for foreign direct investment in key growth sectors
- Offering a strong portfolio of prime foreign capital investment opportunities promoted globally
- Providing world-leading international research capabilities and entrepreneurial talent
- Transforming into the best UK destination for international students
- Becoming a world-class visitor hub
- Building the Manchester brand and reputation by telling its story to a global audience
Not Forgotten
Although these new plans and key priorities seem to be happening without much mention of the Northern Powerhouse, Sir Richard Leese assured guests at the GMIS’ launch that Manchester still stood beside the Powerhouse and the other cities in the region.
“As we build on our success, we’ll look to strengthen not just Greater Manchester, but the entire Northern Powerhouse. We must work with our partners in the north of England to ensure that we’re able to achieve our shared objectives and build a stronger, more inclusive United Kingdom.”
Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council via MEN Business
This no doubt comes as good news to supporters of the Northern Powerhouse; at which Manchester has been repeatedly placed at the heart of; by the government and campaigners. Indeed, the city has no plans to abandon its neighbours, instead opting to work together for everybody’s shared interest. Despite this comeradery, the interests of local businesses are particularly set to benefit.
What Does This Mean for Businesses?
The GMIS symbolises not only Manchester’s ambitions in the coming years, but also an opportunity for businesses to benefit from an unprecedented amount of support from the local council. Manchester-based entrepreneurs in particular are in an enviable position, with additional investment and international links benefiting their own growth plans.
“Undoubtedly our international reputation is critical, investment is critical and there are opportunities for investment in our universities from government in spite of some challenges as well.”
Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President & Vice Chancellor of Manchester University via MEN Business
The GMIS symbolises not only Manchester’s ambitions in the coming years, but also an opportunity for businesses to benefit from an unprecedented amount of support from the local council. Manchester-based entrepreneurs in particular are in an enviable position, with additional investment and international links benefiting their own growth plans.
Elsewhere, improvements in infrastructure – such as the continuing £350million Metrolink expansion and Manchester Airport’s growing passenger numbers – are ushering in a new age of connectivity. The city is already on its way to reaching its goal of becoming a global gateway due to the accessibility offered to international visitors and commuters.
A number of partnerships with key players in the GMIS will also open up new opportunities to businesses. For example, Manchester University’s increasingly diverse international student body provides access to skills from over 140 different countries and can help businesses to form and maintain ties overseas once we arrive at Brexit.
All in This Together
If one thing is clear from this new strategy and the aspirations it embodies, it’s that Manchester as a city will move forward together. By strengthening connectivity, encouraging greater foreign investment and building Manchester’s overseas brand beyond just knowledge of it’s footballing prowess, the city will be able to easily position itself among the most desirable locations globally.
And as the city and surrounding region moves towards this new position of success, everybody from members of the public, international students, and small to large businesses will be able to benefit in some way. But to do that, we first owe our support to the strategy and the key players helping it to unfold.
