100,000 North East jobs could be created through new Recovery and Renewal Deal

A new deal has been unveiled that outlines how the North East can recover economically following COVID-19.

The North East COVID-19 Economic Response Group has published its Recovery and Renewal Deal for the North East, which aims to support the recovery and growth of the region’s economy following the disruption caused by the pandemic.

The deal outlines how with government support, the region can reach a goal of creating 100,000 jobs in order to revitalise the region’s economy.

Lucy Winskell, chair of the North East LEP, explained: “The Recovery and Renewal Deal for the North East is an ambitious proposal that is designed to create a fair playing field for everyone.

“Through our Strategic Economic Plan, it was our goal to create 100,000 new and better jobs and we were doing well – with 68,000 more jobs in March 2020. But the impact of COVID-19 will reset that, which is why our Recovery and Renewal Deal is so important.

“We have presented a proposal that puts sustainability and decarbonisation at the core. The Recovery and Renewal Deal ensures communities continue to improve and provide a strong offer for people to live, work, study and visit.”

In addition to the North East Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), the group is made up of the CBI, North of Tyne and North East Combined Authorities, with the support of local industry.

Sarah Glendinning, regional director for the CBI North East, commented: “Now more than ever we need to be imaginative in our thinking, brave in our approach and robust in our delivery in order to recover and thrive.

“In the Recovery and Renewal Deal for the North East, we have suggested the way to a new North East. Now is the time to come together to think bigger, greener, more inclusively and with innovation to reimagine our economy.”

Mayor Jamie Driscoll, North of Tyne Combined Authority, added: “The pandemic has hit people hard. Young people need jobs. Businesses need investment. Yet we have the potential to be world leaders in offshore energy, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable transport.

“Our Recovery and Renewal deal will create 100,000 well paid jobs. It supports more affordable homes and better health. It’s what our region needs, and I want central government to back our plan and back the North East.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →