The Rest Is Money 240. Levelling Up 2.0: What Actually Works for Regional Growth?
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Jan 5, 2026 In this discussion, Andrew Carter, CEO of the Centre for Cities and an expert on urban economic policy, dives into the productivity disparities across the UK. He explores why places like Slough excel compared to Mansfield and the factors that drive urban productivity. Andrew emphasizes the importance of building local skills and vocational education to attract firms. He also highlights the critical role of universities in regional growth and the impact of effective public transport on city economies. The conversation concludes with a hopeful outlook for cities gaining devolved powers.
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Productivity Is Geographically Concentrated
- UK productivity gains are geographically concentrated in and around the Greater Southeast, like Reading and Milton Keynes.
- Many large northern and midlands cities underperform compared with international peers, holding back national growth.
Large Gaps Between Cities And London
- Big city productivity is about 70–80% of London's level, while some urban areas (e.g., Slough vs Mansfield) differ by around twofold.
- UK city gaps versus their national capitals are larger than in comparable countries like France.
High‑Value Tradable Sectors Drive Growth
- Growth in places comes from attracting 'new economy' high value‑added sectors like digital and life sciences, not just finance.
- These globally tradable activities drive outsized productivity and higher local wages.