Stirring in the undergrowth of the 'think-tank' world is a new consensus - that the sad plight of many northern towns is a direct result of the success of nearby regional cities. Let's be clear. This is the wrong debate with the wrong conclusions at precisely the wrong time. Firstly, the actual 'success' of our cities is very questionable in a European context. All our regional capitals have lower rates of investment and GDP per head than their European rivals. And it's not just a matter of statistics. Toulouse, with an equivalent population to Leeds, has a functional and integrated tram and rail system than would make the leaders of that fine Yorkshire city weep. Outside their shiny city centres many of our cities have the same problems of abandonment and poor educational achievements associated with other urban areas. As a former resident of Miles Platting in North Manchester I can assure you that you will seek a skinny cappuccino in vain.
展开▼
