We are a new forum to develop bold and ambitious policy ideas and initiatives in the True North.

This could benefit the North East of England and Cumbria – what we consider to be the “true north”.

For too long policy makers and politicians have tended to view the North through the prism of the Liverpool-Manchester-Leeds-Hull connection whilst giving lip service to those area further North.

Yet the area consisting of the North East and Cumbria has a population of over 3million and amounts to over 10% of the UKs land mass. It is also home to major Universities, National Parks with significant tourism and cultural Industries, considerable amounts of manufacturing – much of it international, a large agricultural sector and off course huge opportunities in the nuclear, energy and high tech sectors.

However, the area has lacked political influence and strategic direction in policy development.

The True North is about researching and developing policy ideas which can help create a vision for the future for the region.

The region has huge potential but needs to be given Leadership and policy initiatives which can help unlock its true potential and create a more successful and prosperous place for future generations.

This is through changes to public policy particularly around economic development, education, and skills as well as devolving real power and responsibilities to the region. As well as seeking support and initiatives from central government it is vital that leaders in the area take ownership for the future growth and development of the region so that it is ambitious for the future…