The Policy Analysis Team has just released a Policy Briefing detailing the key regional issues that must be considered in the forthcoming revised National Development Plan (NDP)
Policy Insights
The aim of the revised NDP should be to provide the conditions for regions to grow to support the national objective of “sustainable development of the regions” as set out in the National Planning Framework. The dual shocks of COVID-19 and Brexit have exacerbated pre-pandemic structural issues in our region that future policy must address through the reduction of regional infrastructure deficits and broader support for the ‘3Es’ of enterprise, employment and education to enable regions to make the most of their assets.
Given low levels of historical investment there is a clear need to improve regional connectivity and accessibility. A constraint for regional entrepreneurs is the lack of physical and digital infrastructure. The NDP must expedite the roll-out of high-speed broadband as well as the development of physical infrastructure and investment to enhance regional connectivity and accessibility.
The views expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of the WDC.
Luke McGrath
Economist
Policy Analysis Team
