Firstly, a massive thank you to all colleagues and partners who have come together to drive forward the goals we set on behalf of our region. Together, we have achieved an incredible amount and delivered everything we set out to do in our work programme… and more. We’re delighted to share with you our 2024 Annual Review. If you were able to join our All-Partner Conference in November, thank you for your feedback, invigoration, and enthusiasm - genuine pan-regional collaboration in action.
When we welcome in 2025, we will continue to be bold advocates for the Oxford to Cambridge region and all its potential.
This month, we made our formal representation into Government, responding to the technical consultation about the impact of ceasing funding for Pan-Regional Partnerships from March 2025. We expect a final decision to be made by the end of January. Whatever the decision, pan-regional collaboration and cross-boundary partnership will remain essential if we are to maximise the potential of our region. Undoubtedly, the regional and economic development landscape will change significantly over the coming months and years.
As many of our Partners navigate the change set out in the Devolution White Paper, adapt to strategic planning reforms, respond to the emerging industrial strategy, and, not taking our eye off Phase 2 of the Spending Review, the pan-Regional Partnership Team is here to support you, facilitating joint action and convening to shape our progressive pan-regional priorities as we have done throughout the past year.
Dr Richard Hutchins will be leaving the Partnership at the end of December to take up the role of Managing Director of Innovate UK Business Connect. We wish Richard every success in his new role. The Board has appointed Karen Clarke as interim Managing Director, effective 1st January 2025.
Take a look at regional data and insights packaged up in a newly published Regional Overview Report
Interested in the Partnership’s response to the Industrial Strategy Green Paper consultation?
Download the refreshed Regional Environment Principles launched at our All-Partner Conference.
With Strategic Planning back on the national agenda, take a look at expert Catriona Riddell's keynote address via our Youtube Page made at our All-Partner Conference on the theme: the importance of partnership within the new strategic planning environment.
We wish everybody a restful and enjoyable festive break and look forward to your continued engagement in 2025.