An important new report from the Institute for Community Studies (ICS) confirms what many of us working in cities and places already well know: Social and economic change is indivisible. One cannot happen without the other. A strong economic and business led recovery from COVID is critical. But if the links between ‘cranes and communities’ are not made deliberately and consistently, recovery will create prosperity for some, and reinforce negative inequalities for others.

A shared determination to create inclusive economic growth in Newcastle and the North of Tyne is what connects the region’s cross-party political leadership. So as we work together to deliver this in practice, what are the lessons we can draw?