A groundbreaking inclusive growth plan has been unveiled to transform the lives and livelihoods of people across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, marking a major milestone for the East Midlands.
Launched by Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, and the Royal Society for the Arts, Manufactures and Commerce, the Inclusive Growth Commission report is the first of its kind in the UK. It sets out a bold, scalable model for regional development that could influence national policy on levelling up, economic growth, and community wellbeing.
The Commission’s final recommendations focus on four key areas: skills, health, housing, and transport—all designed to help residents access better jobs, opportunities, and build stronger communities.
Key Findings and Opportunities:
- £200 billion potential investment by 2035 if the region attracts more funding.
- Support for 18 industrial sites could help 30,000 low-paid workers earn an extra £6,700 per year.
- Strengthening social networks could generate £1.4 billion in extra income for the poorest households.
- Tackling health barriers could save up to £10 billion annually.
At the heart of the plan is the UK’s first “Opportunity Escalator”, a framework to help people “Get on” - removing barriers like poor transport, unaffordable housing, and unhealthy neighbourhoods – and “Get up” – matching local skills with better jobs and providing clear pathways for career progression.
Flagship Priorities Include:
- Career guidance, work experience, and wellbeing support for every young person.
- Boosting school performance and adult retraining in green and digital sectors.
- Integrating healthcare and employment services to tackle poor health.
- Supporting local enterprises and delivering services through trusted community venues.
- Attracting investment that delivers greener, fairer, healthier places.
The Mayor commented:
“The East Midlands is a region of huge pride and ambition. We’ve always been a place that builds, creates and leads, from our world-class manufacturers to our thriving new industries in green energy, life sciences and the creative economy. However, too often the opportunities our people deserve aren’t spread fairly. That’s why I asked the Inclusive Growth Commission to look hard at the barriers and the solutions.
“The Commission’s final report makes clear the challenge is not aspiration as we have that in abundance, but the pathways that turn ambition into achievement. Too many young people face broken steps on the journey to a secure job, a decent home or affordable transport.”
The Commission also calls for the UK’s first regional plan to strengthen social connections, supporting grassroots leaders and community groups to build a distinctive East Midlands identity that attracts talent and investment.
Set up in November 2024 by the East Midlands Combined County Authority and regional council leaders, the Commission represents a collaborative effort to deliver inclusive growth for all.
Image credit: iStock
