The Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDAi) and 4NW, the Regional Leaders Board, have this week begun a region-wide consultation programme to inform the development of the Northwest’s new integrated Regional Strategy (RS2010).

The Strategy, which has been developed through a partnership between the NWDA and 4NW on behalf of the region, outlines proposed priorities for the Northwest’s long-term development, including:

• Capitalising on the opportunities of moving to a low carbon economy and addressing climate change
• Building on the region’s sources of international competitive advantage and regional distinctiveness
• Releasing the potential of the region’s people and tackling poverty
• Ensuing the right housing and infrastructure for sustainable growth.

The Northwest is the first region to begin working on an integrated regional strategy, building on the learning gained in developing the Regional Economic Strategy, the Regional Spatial Strategy and the Regional Housing Strategy.
A draft Part 1 consultation document has been prepared by the Agency and 4NW, in collaboration with partners from the private, public and third sectors. It has been informed by the development of a substantial evidence base, as well as the Principles and Issues consultation in 2009, which agreed the headline vision, outcomes and values on which RS2010 should be based.

RS2010 is being developed in two parts. The draft Part 1 outlines the high-level strategic framework. Part 2 and an Implementation Framework will set out the detailed policies and actions to deliver the strategic priorities. The consultation on Draft Part 1 is open until 26 February 2010. Following the consultation process, a revised Part 1 together with a draft Part 2 and Implementation Plan will then be prepared later this year, and subject to a formal 12 week statutory consultation in preparation for an Examination in Public.  
Consultation events in each of the five sub-regions will be taking place across the region during the consultation process.

For further information please visit: RS2010 Consultation

A series of events are being held to invite you to find out more and get involved in the consultation. Events are held across the North West, for further information please visit: RES2010 Consultation Events