Lord Heseltine reveals plans to create 25,000 new jobs and build 'quality new homes' in Tees Valley

Lord Heseltine speaking in Darlington on Thursday. Credit: ITV Tyne Tees

The former Deputy Prime Minister, Lord Heseltine has been in the region to present ambitious plans for the Tees Valley.

They include:

  • attracting new businesses

  • building quality new homes,

  • and connecting Darlington with HS2 services in Yorkshire.

Meeting in Darlington, Lord Michael Heseltine was joined by 250 business leaders, and the leaders of the five councils (Redcar & Cleveland, Middlesbrough, Stockton, Hartlepool and Darlington)

Lord Heseltine presented the Industrial Strategy for Tees Valley 2016–2026, which sets out plans to create 25,000 additional jobs, by improving skills and infrastructure, and supporting business growth.

The plan sets out key priorities over the next ten years including:

1 Business Growth – attracting new business, improving access to finance and skills, and growing local business through an expanded Business Compass programme.

2 Research, Development, Innovation and Energy – creating centres of innovation and technology, contributing to the UK’s industrial strategy in sectors of expertise; including biologics and materials.

3 Education, Employment and Skills – increasing the number of graduate opportunities and vocational training, improving educational outcomes, and increasing the number of young people in education, employment and training.

4 Place – creating vibrant town centres and expanding the quality and number of new homes.

5 Transport and Infrastructure – plans to improve road, rail and bus services, connect Darlington to HS2, and develop plans for improved East-West connections and an additional Tees Crossing.

6 The Circular Economy – proposals to develop a ‘low cost/high productivity/low carbon’ model for industry in Tees Valley, securing new investment by building clusters of companies connected through supply chains and sustainable energy supplies.

  • Source: Tees Valley Combined Authority

  • Tees Valley Combined Authority is the body that drives economic growth and job creation in the area. It focuses on economic development, transport, infrastructure and skills.