In the Loop: November Updates and Trends

Resolution Foundation Urges Strategic Tax Reform Ahead of Autumn Budget

The Resolution Foundation’s “Call of Duties” report warns that the UK may need £20–40 billion in annual savings due to fiscal pressures. It proposes targeted tax reforms that protect employees to boost fairness, productivity, and environmental outcomes. Key recommendations include reducing tax distortions across businesses, aligning personal tax rates, and introducing levies on harmful activities. The report stresses the need for a strategic, credible approach to avoid fiscal instability and support long-term growth.

UK Faces Tough Economic Choices Ahead of Autumn Budget

The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) Economic Outlook: Navigating Narrow Paths warns of a challenging fiscal and economic landscape. Growth is slowing, unemployment has risen to its highest since 2016 (excluding COVID), and inflation remains above the 2% target. The Bank of England is expected to cut rates to 3.5% by mid-2026. Real GDP growth is forecast at 1.4% annually, but productivity remains a key risk. The IFS argues budget balancing is needed, with potential GDP losses if inflationary tax measures are used.

Institute for Fiscal Studes warns UK Must Restore Fiscal Credibility to Calm Bond Markets

The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) highlights rising gilt yields, 30-year rates up from 4.5% to 5.7%, as a major threat to UK public finances. With net gilt supply averaging 4% of GDP and private sector holdings set to rise by 6% annually, the government faces mounting pressure to reassure markets. Although the UK is forecast to reduce its deficit and accumulation of debt faster than peers, without credible spending reform or tax rises, the risk of a gilt crisis looms.

Report Hails UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy but Warns of Uneven Start-Up Growth

A new report by the Bennett Institute welcomes the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy 2025 for its focus on long-term, supply-side growth but highlights challenges that could undermine its success. It states that while the UK performs strongly in start-up activity—especially in London and key technology sectors—business dynamism has declined, investment remains regionally concentrated, and survival rates are low (West Midlands’ figures not reported). The report urges policies to strengthen regional ecosystems, boost competition, and support start-ups to scale sustainably nationwide.

Toolkit Urges Whitehall to Get Serious About Regional Growth

A new report by the Future Governance Forum argues that the UK's pursuit of industrial strategy will fail unless the state becomes more reliable, capable and purposeful, especially in formerly under-invested regions. It proposes five practical tools including a “Renewal Investment Tracker”, an evidence-building service for regional growth, revamped funding models, regional business banks, and place-based investment criteria to ensure that growth is felt across the entire country rather than just in the South-East.

Push for Industrial Zones to Reignite UK Growth

Onward’s Reindustrialising Britain report calls for radical reform to revive UK manufacturing and economic growth. It proposes new low-regulation industrial zones with fast-tracked grid access, especially outside the South East, and expanded powers for Metro Mayors. The report highlights barriers such as high energy costs and restrictive planning rules, arguing that targeted deregulation and investment are essential to unlock high-growth industries and rebuild national resilience.

City-REDI Research Reveals Risks Behind Multiple Employment Patterns

City-REDI’s project explores the growing trend of individuals holding multiple jobs, especially combining salaried work with self-employment. Using linked Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) and HMRC data, the study finds these arrangements are often associated with low pay, short hours, and insecure contracts. Gender and local labour market conditions play a significant role, with regional disparities shaping employment choices. The findings aim to inform policies addressing financial insecurity and labour market inequality.

Under Paid, Over Stretched: The Real Cost of Low Wages

A new survey by the Living Wage Foundation reveals that many UK workers earning below the “real Living Wage” live in constant financial strain, with 59% skipping meals, under-heating their homes or falling behind on bills (no regional breakdown provided). Four in ten say their pay harms their quality of life, and more than 40% report negative impacts on mental health, yet 65% believe earning the real Living Wage would improve their lives.

Increasing Job Security: The Potential Impact of Employment Rights Reforms in the UK

A new report by the Work Foundation reveals that over 6.8 million UK workers—more than one in five—were in severely insecure employment in 2023. The analysis estimates that if key reforms from the Employment Rights Bill, such as day one rights and minimum guaranteed hours, had been in place, nearly 3.85 million more workers would have had secure jobs. These changes could significantly reduce job insecurity and improve stability across the UK labour market.

New Evidence on International Inequality of Opportunity – How Does the UK Rank?

The OECD’s report “To Have and Have Not – How to Bridge the Gap in Opportunities” introduces a fresh measure of inequality of opportunity that goes beyond traditional social mobility metrics. Analysing data from 29 countries, the report finds that 28% of income inequality across OECD nations stems from factors outside an individual’s control—such as gender, birthplace, parental background, and childhood living conditions. This approach offers deeper insight into how opportunity is shaped and highlights the structural barriers many face, including in the UK.

Public Supports EDI in Principle, Report Urges Refinement Over Rollback

A More in Common report found that a majority of Britons continue to back equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) principles, and believe that EDI is a very good use of money and leads to fairer outcomes for all. Consequently, it calls on Government to refine EDI policies rather than abandoning them. It calls for EDI initiatives grounded in respect and fairness, prioritising workplace culture, voluntary approaches, and socioeconomic disadvantage. Policies should be context-sensitive, adapting locally rather than imposing top-down mandates, and address perceptions of zero-sum outcomes to ensure benefits are shared across all groups, maintaining broad public support while mitigating concerns about fairness.

Pandemic Deepens UK Wealth Divide

The Resolution Foundation’s Before the Fall report reveals that household wealth in Britain surged during the pandemic, reaching £17 trillion, yet widened absolute wealth gaps. In the West Midlands region, the family wealth gap between the 50^th and 90^th percentile rose by approximately 10%  between 2006-08 and 2020-22 – less than many other parts of the country. Passive asset gains, especially in housing and pensions, disproportionately benefited older and wealthier households across the UK. Wealth mobility remains limited, with low-to-middle income families struggling to climb the ladder. Regional and generational disparities persist, and saving alone is no longer enough to overcome entrenched inequality.

Two Child Limit Cuts Income but Shows No Impact on School Readiness

The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) found that despite reducing benefit entitlements by up to £18,300 for larger families, the two-child limit has no statistically significant effect on children's school readiness at age five. Using national data, the study shows no decline in early development even among children in deprived areas. However, the policy contributes to rising child poverty and financial hardship, with likely broader impacts on family well-being not assessed in this study.

UK Employers Urged to Overcome Bias Against Hiring People with Convictions

A UK survey of over 1,000 employers conducted by Reed, an employment agency, reveals that 20% would automatically reject candidates disclosing a criminal conviction (no regional breakdown provided), despite evidence that such hires often show equal or greater commitment and reliability. The findings call on employers to review recruitment policies and foster inclusive workplace cultures, ensuring that hiring people with convictions is not just tolerated, but actively encouraged to unlock talent and resilience in the workforce.

Sky-High Alcohol Costs Threaten UK Economy and Workforce

A report by the Institute for Public Policy Research warns that rising alcohol-related harms in the UK are dragging down productivity, fuelling health inequalities and imposing significant economic burdens. It urges employers and the government to treat alcohol harm as a national economic issue, not just a public-health concern and push for policies like minimum unit pricing and stronger workplace cultures.

Electrotech Revolution Set to Redefine Global Energy and Phase Out Fossil Fuels

A new report by Ember, an energy transition think tank, makes the case that the “electrotech” revolution, driven by renewables, electrification, and digitalisation, is the most transformative shift in energy since the 18th century. Rapid cost declines and exponential deployment are reshaping electricity, transport, and heat, with China leading global adoption. Emerging markets are leapfrogging traditional systems, while fossil fuel demand is set to peak and decline by 2030. The report urges investors, companies, and governments to embrace this shift to unlock economic growth and energy security.

Latest Business Intel from the Economic Intelligence Unit

According to the latest intel from the Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU) UK growth remains modest but steady, with GDP up 0.3% in Q3 2025 and full-year growth forecast at 1.4%. Inflation is stubborn at 3.8%, keeping cost pressures high for households and firms. Business confidence in the West Midlands region is flat amid rising costs and the economic fallout from the £1.9bn JLR cyberattack. Employment has softened, with vacancies falling for the 39th consecutive period, while skills shortages persist across sectors. Manufacturing faces major headwinds, construction shows modest gains but labour gaps, and retail and tourism remain resilient. Digital growth is constrained by grid issues, and recycling and energy sectors face structural challenges. Find this and more in the WISE annex.

Birmingham Airport Unveils £300m Transformation Plan to Serve 17m Passengers by 2029

Birmingham Airport has committed to a £300m investment over the next four years with passenger numbers expected to reach approximately 17 million by 2029. Major projects in the making include further retail and hospitality offerings over the next three years including a multimillion-pound refurbishment from WDF, alongside three new food and beverage outlets in the departure lounge. Outside of the terminal, there will be significant spend on the airfield, including reconstructing parts of the taxiways, new stands, lighting replacement and runway works totalling £40m. Birmingham Airport has also announced a further £3.8m in its assisted travel service with the introduction of a fleet of new purpose-built ambulifts.

New Partnership Powers £4bn Birmingham Innovation District Forward

The Birmingham Knowledge Quarter - a £4bn innovation district - has taken a significant step forward with the signing of a new partnership. Promotor Woodbourne Group has started working with global real estate investment manager Hines. It could see up to £400m invested into the project. B-KQ covers 519 acres and, subject to planning approval, will provide 6.2 million sq ft of commercial space focused on life sciences, artificial intelligence, digital health and advanced manufacturing.

Graduate Job Market Declines, But Outlook More Nuanced Than Headlines Suggest

The Institute of Student Employers reports an 8% drop in graduate hiring in 2025, the weakest since 2020, with a further 7% decline expected in 2026. Despite this, 33% of employers increased hiring. Apprenticeship recruitment rose 8%, suggesting a shift in early talent hiring strategies. The graduate-to-apprentice hiring ratio fell from 2.3:1 to 1.8:1. AI is reshaping recruitment, with 79% of employers reviewing processes in response to AI. Meanwhile, the application to vacancy ratio remains at a historic high of 140 applications per vacancy.

Youth Employment Interventions in OECD Countries: A Mixed-Methods Review

A comprehensive international review commissioned by the Youth Futures Foundation synthesises findings from 80 process and implementation studies across high-income countries. Conducted by the Campbell Collaboration, the report evaluates various youth employment interventions, including training, apprenticeships, life skills development, and support to employment. It examines their impact on employment outcomes, skills development, and programme sustainability, offering valuable insights for policymakers aiming to enhance youth employment strategies in OECD nations.

AI Could Transform Youth Employment, But Risks Remain, Warns King's Trust

A report by The King's Trust highlights AI's dual impact on youth employment. While AI could enhance productivity by £16 billion, it may also displace £12 billion worth of jobs. The study indicates that over half of current youth and early career roles could be transformed by AI, with augmentation outpacing replacement. Despite widespread AI tool usage, many young people feel unprepared, lacking formal training and support. The Trust urges coordinated action from employers, educators, and policymakers to equip youth with necessary skills and ensure equitable opportunities.

Universities Face AI-Driven Overhaul, HEPI Report Warns

A new report from the Higher Education Policy Institute describes how higher education must rapidly embed AI literacy, reshape assessment and staff roles, and position AI as a strategic asset rather than threat. It calls for universities to re-examine the nature of learning, prioritise human intelligence and ethics, adapt professional services through generative AI and create agile workforce strategies to navigate today’s AI-intensive landscape.

MPs Call for Overhaul of Skills and Further Education to Deliver National Growth Goals

A parliamentary report warns that the Government’s five national missions risk failure without urgent reform of the further education and skills system. It calls for stronger governance and independence for Skills England, deeper devolution of skills policy, reforms to T Levels and apprenticeships, and fairer funding for colleges. MPs also urge expanded mental health and financial support for students, parity for vocational pathways, and action to tackle chronic underinvestment and pay disparities in the FE sector.

UK Experts Call for Preventative, Localised Approach to Combat Economic Inactivity

A Re:State workshop summary highlights rising economic inactivity in the UK, worsened by the pandemic, and stressed prevention over reactive welfare. Experts urged coordinated, locally tailored interventions, breaking down silos, integrating services, and engaging employers. Early support, seamless transitions, and person-centred approaches were deemed critical, alongside realistic incentives and adequate funding. Devolution should enable local flexibility, and reforms must focus on system-wide impact to build a more inclusive, resilient labour market.

Targeted Maintenance Grants for Students to Be Reintroduced

The UK Government has announced the return of targeted, means-tested maintenance grants for students from low-income households in England. Funded by a new levy on international student fees, the grants aim to ease financial barriers to higher education and support students on priority courses aligned with the government’s industrial strategy. This move responds to a significant decline in the value of maintenance loans and is part of the government’s broader Plan for Change.

Dramatic Increase in SEND Support

The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) reveals SEND support has doubled since 2016, with the share of pupils under 16 in England with Education and Health Care Plans (EHCPs) rising from 2.6% to 5.2% and the share of children receiving Child Disability Living Allowance (CDLA) rising from 3.4% to 7.2% over the same period (no regional breakdown provided). Autism and ADHD are key drivers, especially among boys and low-income families. Ethnic disparities persist: EHCP rates among 12–15-year-olds range from 2.0% (Indian) to 5.7% (Black Caribbean), even after adjusting for income. High-needs education spending rose 66% to £12 billion by 2025 and could reach £15 billion by 2029. Without reform, deficits could reach £8 billion by 2028, prompting calls for systemic review and better support to improve long-term outcomes.

U-Shaped Link Between Illness Severity and Public Healthcare Use

An Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) study explores how illness severity affects public healthcare use among privately insured individuals in the UK’s mixed system. It finds a U-shaped relationship: both the least and most severely ill are more likely to use public services. This pattern may reflect public sector prioritisation rather than private sector risk selection. The study suggests that patients at both ends of the severity spectrum would benefit from targeted investment to reduce NHS waiting times.

Calls for Housing as a Universal Basic Service to Tackle Climate and Inequality

The New Economics Foundation’s Good Green Homes for All report advocates treating housing as a universal basic service (UBS), aligning social justice with environmental sustainability. It proposes a whole-systems approach based on four principles—sufficiency, sustainability, security, and setting—to ensure decent homes for all within planetary boundaries. The report critiques market-led housing models and calls for collective action through state and community organisations to meet housing needs while reducing carbon emissions and resource depletion.

Reframing Public Conversations on Supported Housing

The Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s guide, written with FrameWorks UK, offers practical strategies to build public understanding and support for supported housing. It recommends inclusive language, relatable metaphors like “home as foundation,” and sequencing messages to highlight shared needs before specific ones. The guide urges communicators to avoid crisis framing and economic arguments as primary tools, instead focusing on how supported housing improves lives and strengthens society.

Holistic Procurement Key to Social Housing Renewal

Fragmented procurement is hindering social housing regeneration, warns Dan Germann of Durkan Regen. Short-term, siloed funding creates inefficiencies and fails to tackle systemic issues like damp and mould. A holistic, long-term approach—supported by the Procurement Act 2023 and strong public-private partnerships—can deliver sustainable, energy-efficient homes and social value. Examples include 15-year frameworks enabling decarbonisation, community investment, and skills development, ensuring properties remain future-proof for decades.

Next Train Services to Return to Public Ownership Revealed as Government Delivers Railways Reset

West Midlands Trains will be amongst the next raft of services to return to public ownership on 1^st February 2026. Operators must meet rigorous, bespoke standards to earn the right to be called Great British Railways, so we can rebuild a world-class public service. This confirmation builds on the government’s delivery of the biggest reset of the railways in a generation, which will help to deliver better and more reliable services for passengers. Legislation to establish Great British Railways (GBR), the new public company which will take responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the railways, will be introduced this Parliamentary session. The planned reform of the railways, through the establishment of GBR and of which the Railways Bill and the moving of West Midlands Trains to public ownership are key components, represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the region.  The railway is a crucial part of our integrated transport network and an important contributor to the delivery of our wider objectives on jobs and economic growth for everyone. Through West Midlands Rail Executive, the WMCA is working with Government on building a bigger role for the region in how its rail services are planned, managed and delivered. This will enable the WMCA to take a further step towards a railway that delivers what the region needs: local growth through local decision making.

£70m Upgrade to West Midlands Railway Depot to Keep Trains on Track

A significant milestone in improving train service reliability in the West Midlands has been reached following a £70m investment into a key railway depot in Birmingham which officially opened on Friday 24 October. Tyseley Depot’s main shed has been extended, increasing indoor capacity from 29 to 38 vehicles, with improved inspection facilities and new train lifting equipment. A solar farm of 302 panels has been installed on the shed roof, estimated to generate 124,000 kWh and save 58 tonnes of carbon per year. West Midlands Railway (WMR) carries millions of people on its network each year, with passenger numbers continuing to grow. To keep the network running, Tyseley employs over 200 staff members from the local area including 130 technicians and 10 management positions. The depot is central to WMR’s engineering apprenticeship programme, with 16 apprentices at the site.  Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: …“This vast site employs hundreds of people in high-quality engineering jobs and I am especially pleased to see the apprenticeship programme still growing with 49 new starters in the last year.”

West Midlands Using Devolved Powers to Improve Transport and Support Regional Priorities

Transport for West Midlands’ Principal Policy and Strategy Officer has set out ideas for a range of improvements to the region’s transport infrastructure that could be showcased in 2027 when the Intelligent Transport Systems World Congress comes to Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre. Adam Harrison, speaking at a recent ITS UK – Urban Mobility Partnership event in Birmingham, detailed how the West Midlands is already using new devolved powers to improve transport and support regional priorities like economic growth, job creation, and housing. The event also looked at the implications of wider devolution for transport authorities across the country. He also highlighted calls for the government to grant more powers to local authorities such as a proposal to allow regions to retain revenue from average speed cameras, which could then be reinvested directly into road safety initiatives. Mr Harrison discussed how greater local control is already leading to improvements in a range of other key areas, including devolution of bus services, increasing rail capacity, and promoting active travel.

Budget 2025: Government Must “Maintain Momentum” on Transforming Local Transport, Urges Urban Transport Group

The Urban Transport Group’s budget submission urges Government to capitalise on this Spending Review by providing revenue funding that will help to realise the full potential of capital projects and ambitions for bus networks. The submission contains two recommendations: (1) Commit to long-term revenue funding certainty for bus that recognises the ambition and commitment of local areas to protect and enhance bus networks, and (2) Commit to sufficient revenue funding to support capacity; planning and delivery of capital projects; and the ongoing success and maintenance of those projects, enabling maximum returns on investment.

In My Way: Navigating Pedestrian Journeys with Sight Loss

The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) have issued a report discussing the challenges that blind and partially sighted pedestrians face in navigating streets and pavements. It draws on an online survey with 1,197 respondents and a focus group. Examines travel experiences and the barriers encountered, looking at: pavement parking (and progress in the nations of the UK to address this through changes to the law); poor quality pavements and tactile paving; surface water; the impact of cyclists and e-scooter riders; the impact of new design approaches to cycle lanes and shared use; inclusive and accessible crossings; injuries; obstacles on pavements; difficulties caused by road works and construction work; and vehicle headlight glare. The report recommends these issues be addressed.

Cross Nation Active Travel Report

PolicyWise (Open University) have released a report presenting comparative analysis of data collection and monitoring regarding active travel across the four nations of the UK (no subnational breakdown). It synthesises evidence from stakeholder meetings, organisational website review and a rapid review of literature published since 2000. It provides an overview of policy and funding concerning active travel in each UK nation and compares active travel indicators used across the four national governments of the UK to identify synergies and differences including data collection practices, highlighting good practice in monitoring and evaluation. The report suggests that combining infrastructure and behavioural interventions are most effective in sustaining uptake.

Assessing the Readiness for 15-Minute Cities: A Literature Review on Performance Metrics and Implementation Challenges Worldwide

An academic article in Transport Review surveys literature and performance metrics relating to 15-minute cities (FMCs). It presents a background to 15-minute cities and their principles across different geographical contexts and categorises performance metrics into six broad groups: amenity-based, population-based, distance-based, gravity-based, behaviour-based, and weighted scores. The research finds significant disparity in approaches to FMCs highlighted in the literature: European and Asian studies focus on the spatial distribution of amenities, while North American research emphasises behavioural analysis, highlighting the challenges posed by car dependency and urban sprawl. The article identifies key research gaps, including the limited attention given to digitalisation and equity concerns, concluding that standardisation of performance metrics is important to allow comparison, but that FMC programmes should be allowed to be tailored to local contexts and not take a one size fits all approach.

OECD Warns Governments Lag Behind Private Sector in Safe, Effective AI Adoption

An OECD report finds that while artificial intelligence could transform public services and save thousands of work hours, governments are slow to scale its use compared with the private sector. Most AI projects remain pilots due to data, skills and infrastructure gaps. The OECD urges governments to adopt stronger governance, transparency and stakeholder engagement to ensure trustworthy AI use, warning that inaction risks widening capability gaps and eroding public trust.

Demos Report Highlights Cultural Barriers to Lasting Public Service Reform

A new paper by Demos argues that Whitehall’s culture, not lack of ideas, hinders meaningful public service reform. Risk aversion, siloed departments, career incentives for “policy heroes,” and pressure for quick wins stifle innovation and collaboration. The report suggests these barriers are understandable but not immutable, pointing to other sectors where culture has been reshaped to encourage experimentation, trust, and adaptive solutions. It calls for open dialogue and collaborative approaches to overcome entrenched habits and enable sustainable, people-centred reform.

Procurement Reform Key to Local Growth

Localis revisits its 2024 “New Values” report, highlighting how recent policy shifts, including the English Devolution Bill and Cabinet Office procurement consultations, have reshaped the landscape for local authorities. The updated analysis stresses the importance of strategic, socially-driven procurement, advocating for hybrid delivery models and insourcing to boost local jobs and growth. It reflects political momentum toward reducing bureaucracy and enhancing public value through smarter contracting.

Government Launches Pride in Place Strategy to Empower Local Communities

The government’s new Pride in Place Strategy aims to reverse decades of decline in UK neighbourhoods, particularly in coastal, post-industrial, and rural areas. It seeks to devolve power and funding to local leaders, strengthen social infrastructure, and support community-led solutions. With growing inequalities, social disconnection, and declining local services, the strategy focuses on giving residents tools, resources, and influence to improve their areas, harnessing local knowledge to drive visible change and foster thriving, resilient, and inclusive communities.

Communities, Not Whitehall, Are Key to National Renewal, Report Urges

A Demos article urges the government to put communities at the centre of national renewal, building on local initiative, volunteerism, and civil society. It calls for meaningful funding and coordination, including central capacity to unify government efforts around neighbourhoods. The government should recognise and amplify grassroots action, creating policies that empower local people, celebrate successes, and embed community-led solutions into national strategies. True change, the report argues, comes from supporting people in their places, not top-down plans from Whitehall.

Public Services Under Strain, Says IfG Tracker 2025

The Institute for Government’s (IfG’s) Public Services Performance Tracker 2025 offers a sweeping review of nine major services using over 250 indicators, finding chronic under-resourcing, regional disparities and mounting financial pressure on local government. Latest Labour-era reforms have begun, but the report warns the system remains fragile and warns of “more local authority financial failure” without additional funding.

Time for Digital ID: A New Consensus for a State That Works

A paper from the Institute for Global Change makes the case for introducing a modern digital ID system in the UK. It argues that digital ID can streamline access to public services, reduce fraud, and improve data security, while giving citizens greater control over their personal information. Public support is strong, with 62% in favour across political groups. The paper positions digital ID as essential infrastructure for reform, capable of transforming how people interact with the state and access everyday services.

Green Alliance Urges Action to Accelerate Zero Emission HGV Rollout

Green Alliance’s Charging Ahead report highlights the urgent need to decarbonise UK road freight, which produces 30% of domestic greenhouse gas emissions. Despite HGVs making up just 1.5% of vehicles, they account for 16% of transport emissions. With only 500 electric HGVs in operation, upfront costs remain a barrier—eHGVs cost £160,000–£200,000 versus £80,000–£100,000 for diesel. The report calls for a clear regulatory roadmap, strategic investment in megawatt charging infrastructure, and a zero emission HGV sales mandate to meet 2040 targets and avoid falling behind global leaders like Sweden and China.

New Report Shows UK Nature Bearing Brunt of Chaotic Climate

The Wildlife Trusts’ Resilient Nature report highlights the growing impact of climate change on UK wildlife and habitats. Drawing on data from 2,600 nature reserves, it reveals that extreme and unpredictable weather over the past year—more than just heatwaves and drought—has caused widespread damage. Key issues include dried-out peat bogs and heathlands, low water levels affecting species like swifts and amphibians, increased wildfire risks, and severe flooding from intense storms. The report underscores the urgent need to protect nature amid escalating climate pressures.

UK Set to Miss Tree Planting Target by Area the Size of the Isle of Wight by 2030

A new report by the Energy & Climate Intelligence Unit warns that the UK is falling behind on tree planting targets essential for reaching net-zero emissions. Based on current and historic planting rates, the country is projected to miss the Committee on Climate Change’s 2030 goal by an area equivalent to the Isle of Wight. Tree planting is a vital part of the UK’s climate strategy, as trees absorb carbon and help offset emissions from sectors like agriculture. The CCC recommends scaling up planting to 37,000 hectares annually by 2030, increasing to 60,000 hectares by 2040.

Canals to Power West Midlands Regeneration, Says Trust

The Canal & River Trust (CRT) urges the West Midlands to unleash its historic waterways as dynamic assets for regeneration, community health and nature recovery. Their new regional prospectus argues that canals, when embedded in urban planning and supported by investment and partnerships, can deliver clean air, climate resilience and vibrant blue-green spaces. It calls for collaboration between developers, planners and funders to ensure canals become “catalysts for everyday life” across the region.

The Built Environment Sector: Together, the Built Environment Sector Can Drive a Stronger UK Economy

A report by New London Architecture (NLA) explores the vital role of the UK’s built environment in shaping everyday life and economic activity. It includes homes, public spaces, infrastructure, and the hidden networks that support them. With people spending most of their time indoors, the quality and accessibility of these spaces directly affect health, wellbeing, and opportunity. The report also highlights how the built environment influences social equity, reflects cultural values, and will be central to adapting to climate change.

WMCA Economic Dashboard

The latest dashboard prepared by the EIU shows that, in contrast to youth claimant counts, the overall claimant count in the region has been in slow overall decline since summer 2024. The Business Activity Index fell to below 0.5, likely reflecting the impact of the JLR shutdown on the regional economy that month. Find these figures and more in the annex.

28% Rise in Electric Vehicle Charging Points Across WMCA Area in Last Year

Data available on the WISE Data Profiler shows the number of electric vehicle charging devices per 100,000 population has risen by 28.3% between April-June 2024 and April-June 2025; with Coventry having the highest number of charging points at 750.3 per 100,000 people and Wolverhampton having the lowest at 44.1 per 100,000 in April-June 2025. The increase was greatest in Birmingham, having increased by 92.9% over the same period from 66.6 to 128.5 charging points per 100,000.