Northern Powerhouse Independent Economic Review (NPIER) 2023

What is it?
The Northern Powerhouse Independent Economic Review (NPIER) is a long‑term research programme that sets out the North’s economic strengths, challenges and future growth potential. This updated version builds on the original 2016 review and underpins TfN’s Strategic Transport Plan. [NPIER-2023...cation (1) | PDF]

How is it useful?
It helps combined authorities and partners understand the North’s economy and make the case for investment. Use it to shape transport and economic strategies, align policy decisions and support long‑term growth and levelling up across the region.

Key findings

• The North has strong sector strengths but a persistent productivity gap
• Better connectivity and investment are key to unlocking growth
• A joined‑up approach across skills, innovation, housing and transport is needed
• A “transformational” approach could deliver significant growth, jobs and improved living standards by 2050