York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority has unveiled a decade-long Growth Plan aimed at strengthening the region’s economy and positioning it as a national leader in rural innovation.
The plan, among the first in England to receive formal government approval, sets out how the area intends to expand its gross value added (GVA), boost productivity, and create secure, higher-quality jobs. It also focuses on widening access to economic opportunities, attracting investment, and progressing towards a carbon-negative future.
David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said: “Growing York and North Yorkshire’s economy goes hand-in-hand with building healthy and thriving communities. York and North Yorkshire is a spectacular place to live with one of the highest performing economies in the North of England. We have a proud history of feeding the UK, powering the UK, connecting the UK, healing the UK, inspiring the UK and protecting the UK – and by continuing to harness all those strengths, we are growing the UK.
He continued, “We need government to recognise our strengths as we take our place on the national stage, strengths that can support the UK’s growth ambitions but also help to address issues that face our residents today. This plan has been created with those who live, work and do business in York and North Yorkshire at its heart, to deliver better quality and more secure jobs, more affordable homes and provide better connectivity. My ambition is simple: to help create places where people can thrive – where good health, good jobs, and a good quality of life are part of everyday experience, not just ambition.”
Developed under the framework of England’s devolution agenda, the plan details how local authorities will use devolved funding and decision-making powers to drive growth. It identifies several sectors with strong potential for competitive advantage: food and farming innovation, engineering biology and life sciences, clean energy, rail innovation and security, and the creative industries. Defence has also been highlighted as an emerging opportunity sector.
Supporting these priorities are established employment bases in manufacturing and tourism, which the Combined Authority sees as vital to delivering long-term, sustainable economic resilience across York and North Yorkshire.
