Policy and Research

Clear analysis and persuasive evidence are core to the work of the Northern Way.

In the past, research evidence has underpinned our key strategic documents such as the Northern Way Growth Strategy, our policy submissions into the Government Review of sub-national Economic Development and investment proposals for programmes delivered through the Growth Fund.

Building on this strong record of research, between 2008 and 2011, we will place a greater priority on this work. Our policy and research programme will aim to:

• develop evidence in our key theme areas to support policy change and encourage investment
• support regional strategy development from a pan-regional perspective, focusing on the three Integrated Regional Strategies in the North of England and the economic development of our city-regions and other territories
• stimulate thinking about the long term development of our economy through; assessment of its current performance and potential, understanding of emerging opportunities and challenges, learning from other territories and from evaluation of our work
• take forward an comprehensive evaluation of the work of the Northern Way which details and identifies learning from our activities and disseminates this information

This work programme is supported by the Northern Way Research Forum  which draws together policy and research teams from Regional Development Agencies and city regions alongside colleagues from central Government and Regional Observatories to ensure coordination and shared ownership of this work. We will also aim to build wider collaboration with other stakeholders to build knowledge and add value.