Research Teams
Introduction
In 2008, we will continue to develop our core focus on the economic performance of UK cities – and explore the economic role of transport, housing, migration and the links between cities.
UK Cities Outlook: Our flagship report on urban trends will be published at the beginning of 2008. This annual publication will track the state of Britain’s cities using a wide variety of economic indicators, summarise the current state of debate in urban policy and look ahead to future developments.
We’ll also be undertaking a wide programme of research into urban economic issues, including the following areas:
Maximising City Growth: How should cities deal with the challenges arising from success? We will analyse growth, and provide new insights, policy solutions, strategies and guidance on maintaining and sustaining growth and development in successful cities. We will use case studies to examine how successful cities address skills shortages, develop transport infrastructure, and tackle disparities within urban areas.
Unlocking City Potential: What about those cities that have yet to reach their full potential? We will recommend new policy solutions, strategies and guidance for those cities that have not achieved dynamic economic growth and renaissance. Using case studies, we will look at how our ex-industrial cities can restore their prosperity and reinvent themselves.
We will cover other important related issues over the coming year, including:
Housing: Prime Minister Brown has put housing at the top of his domestic agenda. We will examine the role of housing in urban economies and its impact on labour markets, for example. We will also comment on the growing debate on housing supply and affordability, as well as specific issues like mixed communities.
Open cities: Globalisation has brought increasing international economic integration and increased flows of investment, businesses and people. Cities are open economies, and globalisation presents opportunities as well as threats. For example, the movement of people into and within Britain brings growing cities the skills they need, but these skills need to be retained and developed.
Devolution: The last few years have seen increasing devolution to cities and regions, and this trend is accelerating. With cities gaining new powers, what should they do with them to maximise economic and social benefits? What further powers would help them grow?
Finally, we will continue to comment on urban policy developments. This is a crucial time for our cities – with the Local Transport Bill coming up, and announcements expected from all the main parties on local governance and devolution. 2008 is also a Mayoral election year in London, and we will want to keep cities firmly on the agenda.
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Weapons of mass destruction?
Biotechnology and security to 2025
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The future of the UK's international development agenda
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Migration policies and the poor
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