A bold, deliverable vision for the North East, 2026 Turning ambition into action

Drawing on years of first-hand leadership in the North East, this paper offers a constructive challenge: how councils, partners, and communities can turn ambition into tangible, measurable outcomes using the powers and levers already available. It reflects an understanding of the pressures, constraints, and opportunities facing local government, anchor institutions, and community partners — and demonstrates how practical, integrated approaches can deliver impact today.

The North East is rich in ambition. Strategies, bids, plans, and programmes exist in abundance. Yet translating these ambitions into outcomes that improve lives, generate local wealth, and strengthen resilience remains a persistent challenge. This framework shows how integrated delivery systems can align housing, energy, skills, infrastructure, and the local economy into coherent programmes with clear ownership, timelines, and measurable outcomes.

“Our aim is to strengthen delivery across the North East, helping councils and partners harness their existing powers to create outcomes that are bold, tangible, and lasting.”

Contact Graeme or Nick for a copy of the vision document.