A recent poll shows that just 6% of those asked want things to return to as they were pre-Covid-19. Community groups are calling for a recovery plan that creates a stronger, fairer and greener future and take in the whole of the UK. But in the North things aren’t changing fast enough, according to Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham.
Following the Government’s announcement of a £200m Sustainable Innovation Fund and the £1 billion schools rebuilding scheme, speaking on Sky News on 28th June, Andy said the region is still waiting for funds to be announced citing ‘promises but little delivery’. He commented:
We can’t regenerate the North through building projects alone. The North has been hit harder due to the number of people on zero hours contracts, poor quality housing and deep structural issues.”
Mr Burnham went on to say that the North needs to see the Government come forward with a plan to prevent the North South divide becoming wider. While he is part of a Government Economic Recovery group, he insists “now is the time to deliver” with a plea on behalf of local councils who he said needs to see more support funding to cover large black holes in their balance sheets. “Councils are at the heart of recovery. In the last round of budget cuts, Northern councils had to stand a cut of 20% compared to a UK average of 13%.