This is a pivotal moment for local economic development in the UK. The Modern Industrial Strategy, Comprehensive Spending Review and Devolution White Paper require all Mayoral Strategic Authorities to develop 10-year Local Growth Plans that will shape how billions in public investment will drive productivity, innovation, and inclusive growth.
The Government’s new strategy identifies eight priority sectors (which they call the ‘IS-8’) and the places across the UK where they are most likely to drive growth. The Local Growth Plans will inform how these funds are invested:
But here’s the challenge: strategy must lead to action.
At GC Insight, we’ve worked with clients across the UK to develop strategies that deliver bigger positive impacts. From experience, we know that the real value in strategy lies in the actions that follow - which means setting clear priorities, shaping investment decisions and making tough choices about what matters most to a place and its economy.
Having many strategies in play at the same time risks diluting focus. If your sector strategy prioritises one type of business and your site strategy (for very good reasons) focuses on places suited to a different market, then they aren’t pointing in the same direction and aren’t really doing their job. That’s why alignment is critical, and why Local Growth Plans must be more than visionary. They also must be practical, prioritised, and politically aware.
Yes, politics matter. Growth, jobs, and thriving communities are deeply political concerns. The best strategies don’t ignore this, they embrace it, and they balance the needs of investors, businesses, and voters alike. To seize this moment as well as a clear economic vision places need:
GC Insight can help. We co-create strategy, build business cases and measure impact. We can bring insight and experience that turn plans into progress.
If you want to talk about how we can support your Local Growth Plan, get in touch with me at simon.hooton@gcinsight.co.uk
You can also explore this website to learn more about our expertise and past strategy projects.
