This is the second of our update reports following the publication of Real Lives, Real Issues, our main State of the Region Report 2004.
In this 2006 update we examine the West Midlands' knowledge economy, its transport and, for the first time, report on the size, value and importance of the region’s cultural activities.
Challenges and Choices
Few factors exist in isolation in the West Midlands, so we review the evidence presented separately in each of the three main thematic chapters, drawing together a number of strategic research findings in relation to key policy intervention areas.
We also identify gaps in our current understanding to inform future research and our knowledge of issues and trends affecting the West Midlands.
Building a Sustainable Knowledge Economy
Building a knowledge economy in the West Midlands—one which is economically competitive, socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable—is an important development aspiration.
In this chapter we consider a number of the principal dimensions associated with sustainable knowledge economy development for the West Midlands.
Amongst other research, we use our analysis undertaken to support the Regional Skills Partnership and recent work undertaken in collaboration with academic partners to underpin the new evidence base for the West Midlands Economic Strategy Review.
Culture in the West Midlands
There is increasing recognition that regional competitiveness extends beyond a consideration of 'traditional' business and economic factors.
Recent discussion has focused on the particular role and contribution of distinctive place-based factors including how quality of life and culture underpin longer-term regional competitiveness and well-being.
Within this context, we examine the scope of the West Midlands' cultural sector, both as an economic entity in its own right, but also as a facilitator of wider regional development, including knowledge economy development.
We also emphasise the importance of culture towards enhancing social cohesion and identity in the region.
Transport in the West Midlands
Transport represents a central component of the infrastructure of the West Midlands. It literally comprises the 'wheels' upon which businesses, commuters, visitors and residents alike depend.
In this chapter we reveal a picture of rising congestion threatening to undermine regional competitiveness and quality of life through degradation of the environment, making commerce more difficult, and constraining people's ability to access places of work and education, as well as social and recreational activities.
Statistics show that vehicle numbers, road traffic, congestion and total transport-related emissions are increasing, while bus use is declining.
We also consider potential mechanisms whereby these negative trends may be addressed, such as reducing the need to travel, encouraging people to shift to public transport or less polluting modes of transport, together with other components of 'demand management'.