State of the North 2017: The Millennial Powerhouse

Article

In 2030 the northern powerhouse will be run by the millennial generation. For the first time they and their successors will make up the majority of the electorate, and will form the overwhelming majority of the workforce: millennials (aged 22–37) and ‘Generation Z’ (aged 21 and younger) will be a political and economic force for change in the North and across the country.

This new generation must unlock northern potential much more effectively than their predecessors. They will have to meet significant new challenges, and seize new opportunities that arise.

To meet these challenges the North’s millennials need to push for devolution. In the 21st century, the country and the world will need the North’s assets more than ever before. Without devolution they will continue to be wasted, as they were throughout much of the 20th century.

Related items

  1. A wind farm in the hills to the south of Glasgow, Scotland.

    Apathy and opposition: Understanding the real threats to net zero

    Climate action is under siege from populist and far-right actors. Delivering under that pressure demands fresh confidence and commitment from government. 
  2. A flood warning sign, on a closed country road next to water logged fields in the Avon Valley, Hampshire, England

    Adapt or die: Why progressives need to deal with extreme weather

    The impacts of extreme weather are already directly affecting people and communities across the UK. We lack ways to deal with this. 
  3. The outside of the BBC building in London with people walking in front of it

    Levelling the playing field: The BBC, Big Tech, and the case for a bold charter

    The upcoming charter renewal is the moment to give the BBC the resources, freedom and mission it needs to engage with technology firms on its own terms.