We will use our industrial past to create a new future
This is a region of many perspectives, and many stories, bound together by challenge and opportunity. The industrial revolution that changed the world, started here. People came to the West Midlands from the world over: to work, create, and trade. The idea of local government shaping its place and economy was brought to life by Joseph Chamberlain. Things have changed a great deal since then but the region is proud of its history, its heritage, and the work that has shaped us all. Today, the West Midlands still has the highest concentration of manufacturers of any region, and accounts for nine percent of all manufacturing employment in Britain.
This identity looks slightly different across the region. In the east, there is an emphasis on transport and mobility, where Coventry’s strength in transport and automotive grew out of over 250 companies manufacturing bicycles. In the west, there are still over 240 medium-sized businesses focused on traditional metal forming and component production, largely for the high-technology and demanding aerospace and automotive supply chains.
Now we need to write some new chapters for our new challenges. A West Midlands that is powerful enough to power itself: via its democratic institutions, its businesses, and its energy systems. A West Midlands where smart technology and low carbon connectivity create shared prosperity. A West Midlands where we come up with place and people-focused solutions to big challenges and export them to the world. A West Midlands where anyone and everyone contributes to our shared missions, and where different kinds of contributions are valued equally.
What does this look like?
We will have an energy system which responds to our needs and is controlled by the region’s people, businesses and public sector institutions.
Between 2018 and 2030, more than £15bn will be invested in local energy projects across the WMCA. £74bn will be spent on products and services where the quality of local energy systems will determine how well our businesses will perform against global competitors, and how easy and comfortable the lives of citizens will be. Finally, a further £80bn will be spent on fuel and power for our industry, our transport, and our home lives. All of this investment will have to be made in a way which helps us meet the climate challenge while increasing prosperity – and devolution will be fundamental to realising that opportunity.