This seminar will bring together policymakers with key stakeholders to assess next steps for the Northern Powerhouse, and for supporting regional growth across the North of England.

The seminar follows the publication of first ever National Infrastructure Assessment, which includes recommendations for £43 billion of long term transport funding for regional cities, with £400 million of extra transport funding already having already been allocated, including £100 million towards local road schemes to reduce congestion and £300 million for Northern Powerhouse Rail.

It also takes place as government announces the formation of the NP11 – a new body consisting of 11 Local Enterprise Partnership Chairs from the Powerhouse – which aims to act as one voice representing a modern day ‘Council for the North’.

Planned sessions will examine the impact on growth and innovation for Universities across the region, how the North can develop as a cultural hub following the announcement of a new £3m fund to support creative and cultural organisations, and the issues facing business in promoting economic growth locally.

Delegates will also discuss the initial impact of the introduction of Metro Mayors in the region, as well as the future for governance in the Powerhouse as the Government enters into discussions with the Liverpool City Region and Tees Valley to explore scope for further devolution, and with the Sheffield City Region electing its first Metro Mayor.

Sue Barnard, Senior Relationship Manager, British Business Bank will be speaking at the event about the impact that the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund is having in the North of England.