In recent weeks, claims of a “productivity miracle” in some of the UK’s northern cities have sparked lively debate (which I have been part of!). New subregional productivity data appears to show that places like Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds and others have dramatically outpaced national trends since 2019, but with a very specific high jump in … Continue reading “Beyond the “Productivity Miracle”: What the Data Really Tell Us About Northern Cities”
From Glossaries to Ground Game: What “Innovation” Really Means for Places, and Why the LPIP Matters
Innovation isn’t a glossary term—it’s the practical work of turning ideas into value for people and places. In this blog, Gerardo J. Arriaga‑Garcia explores how the LPIP programme helps move innovation from theory to meaningful impact. If you work in policy, you’ve seen the glossaries: tidy lists of “innovation” terms presented as if they live … Continue reading “From Glossaries to Ground Game: What “Innovation” Really Means for Places, and Why the LPIP Matters”
Research Influencing Welsh Policy-Making: Cymru Wledig LPIP Rural Wales Engagement Success
Engagement with policymakers and decision-makers across Wales (and the UK) has been a core element of Cymru Wledig LPIP Rural Wales’ activities over the past 18 months. Our proactive engagement strategy has ensured that the project teams’ incredible research, analysis, and policy recommendations can benefit communities by reaching those stakeholders with the power to lead … Continue reading “Research Influencing Welsh Policy-Making: Cymru Wledig LPIP Rural Wales Engagement Success”
How Regional Emissions and Energy Use Has Changed Since 2015 – 4 Key Points
A newly released LPIP report by Matt Lyons (City-REDI) and Stephen Brand (New Horizon Economics) examines how UK regions’ GVA is becoming decoupled from energy inputs and emissions. This blog summarises the report in 4 key points. 1- The UK is decoupling at the national level The amount of energy and emissions required to generate … Continue reading “How Regional Emissions and Energy Use Has Changed Since 2015 – 4 Key Points”
A Learning Journey on Building Cohesive, Powerful Communities
I am Dr Angela Jeffery, Co-Chair of Birmingham Citizens, and I am keen to introduce the Local Policy and Innovation Partnerships project that I am working on. Although a biologist by background, I have been working on Community Development since 2019, when I led the development of the Aston University Civic Agreement and managed the … Continue reading “A Learning Journey on Building Cohesive, Powerful Communities”
Why PRISMs Are Essential for Embedding Professional Standards in Place-Based Research Partnerships
Place-based research partnerships are complex ecosystems. They bring together universities, local authorities, community organisations, and businesses to tackle real-world challenges. But complexity needs structure, and that’s where professional standards come in. Yet standards alone don’t deliver impact. They need people who can translate principles into practice, navigate governance, and build trust across sectors. Enter the … Continue reading “Why PRISMs Are Essential for Embedding Professional Standards in Place-Based Research Partnerships”
Meet Glenn Athey, Economic Development Consultant and LPIP Hub Place Fellow
I’m Dr Glenn Athey, an economic development consultant and policy advisor with over 31 years’ experience working at the intersection of research, policy and practice. I specialise in local, urban and regional economic development, working with local and national government, combined authorities, universities, and major investors to design better policies and programmes. My work spans … Continue reading “Meet Glenn Athey, Economic Development Consultant and LPIP Hub Place Fellow”
Placecast: Episode Ten – What the UK Can Learn from Japan: Local Governance, Finance, and Place Leadership
In this episode of Placecast, Nicola Headlam speaks with Abigail Taylor (City-REDI) and Jeff Matsu (former Chief Economist at CIPFA and City-REDI Associate) about their groundbreaking comparative research on governance and fiscal devolution between Japan and the UK. Their work, supported by international partnerships and field visits to Osaka and Tokyo, offers fresh insights into … Continue reading “Placecast: Episode Ten – What the UK Can Learn from Japan: Local Governance, Finance, and Place Leadership”
Five Lessons About Anchor Networks
In this blog, originally posted on the CLES website, a Delivery Partner of the LPIP Hub, Conrad Parke discusses lessons learnt at a recent London Anchor Institution Network event. The concept of anchor institutions – organisations rooted in a place that can play a defining role in creating and reinforcing local economic ties – has … Continue reading “Five Lessons About Anchor Networks”
Building the Workforce of Tomorrow: Pathways to Inclusive Growth in the North East and Beyond
Professor Graham Thrower examines alternative approaches to addressing skills and economic inactivity and highlights the importance of creating pathways to employment for those from marginalised and disadvantaged backgrounds. The North East of England has long been known for its people – their resilience, creativity and sense of community. Yet despite these strengths, too many residents … Continue reading “Building the Workforce of Tomorrow: Pathways to Inclusive Growth in the North East and Beyond”