PolyMETREXplus. The Northern Isles Tile From synthesis to scoping

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1 PolyMETREXplus For consideration prior to WK6 in Zaragoza from Discussion Note 8 METREX Nye Bevan House, 20 India Street, GLASGOW, G2 4PF T. +44 (0) F. +44 (0) secretariat@eurometrex.org 1

2 Discussion Note 8 PolyMETREXplus PolyMETREXplus Workshop 6 in Zaragoza CONTENTS 1 Purpose of this discussion note 2 The existing Spatial Visions/Frameworks in the Northern Isles The Northern Way ( National Planning Framework for Scotland ( Regional Development Strategy for Northern Ireland ( The Irish Spatial Strategy ( The Wales Spatial Plan ( The Midlands Way ( 3 Comparative findings and conclusions RR/TP/14/4/2005 2

3 Discussion Note 8 PolyMETREXplus PolyMETREXplus Workshop 6 in Zaragoza 1 Purpose of this discussion note The PolyMETREXplus Lead Partner has asked all partners to consider Discussion Note 7, and the suggested action in section 9, in relation to Spatial Visions and Clusters and Corridor studies and to prepare and circulate, through the Secretariat, responses to Section 9 to further detail the possible form and content of Spatial Visions and Cluster and Corridor studies by FRIDAY 15 APRIL. Section 9 of Discussion Note 7 suggests that, PolyMETREXplus cluster and corridor studies might consider the spatial planning, social, economic and environmental development opportunities that are in prospect in the medium to longer term, for example. Connectivity (primary road, rail and waterway networks, interchanges and gateways) Polycentric urban settlement structure (primary metropolitan regions and areas, including clusters and corridors). The ESPON analyses are a starting point but PolyMETREXplus partner and contributors have suggested additions and modifications Significant environmental resources (areas of scenic, cultural and ecological significance) Polycentric social (for example, joint education/health/cultural services or specialisations) and economic (for example, business/r and D/tourism) relationships that might be developed Polycentric spatial planning and development opportunities that might be developed, for example, for logistics, research, services, manufacturing, distribution etc. The purpose of this Discussion Note is to précis the Spatial Visions/Frameworks that now exist over the area of the Northern Isles and to draw some comparative findings and conclusions that may be useful to the PolyMETREXplus project and partners. The following context diagram has been taken from the Regional development Strategy for Northern Ireland. 3

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5 Discussion Note 8 PolyMETREXplus PolyMETREXplus Workshop 6 in Zaragoza 2 The existing Spatial Visions/Frameworks in the Northern Isles The Northern Way ( Introduction The Northern Way is a response by a Standing Committee of the three Regional Development Agencies in northern England to an invitation in February 2004 by the Deputy Prime Minister to show how the North could unlock the potential for faster economic growth and bridge the 29bn output gap between the North and the rest of the UK. The chosen measure of success will be the achievement of the UK national GVA (gross value added) per head within 25 years (by 2025). The Vision for the North is to be a great place to build a business. The emphasis is on educational attainment, advanced technologies, connectivity, gateways, multiculturalism, quality of urban life and the heritage of natural resources. 14.3m people live in the North in eight city regions centered on Manchester (3.16m), Leeds (2.56m), Liverpool/Merseyside, Tyne and Wear and Sheffield (1.54m 1.79m each), Central Lancashire, Hull and the Humber ports, Tees valley and Tyne and Wear (much smaller populations). The city regions contain 90% of the population and economic activity in the North (see diagram 1) Connectivity (primary road, rail and waterway networks, interchanges and gateways) The attached diagrams 1 and 2 show the range of specific and detailed projects that are included in the Growth Strategy. Polycentric urban settlement structure (primary metropolitan regions and areas, including clusters and corridors). The ESPON analyses are a starting point but PolyMETREXplus partner and contributors have suggested additions and modifications Diagrams 1 and 2 also show the polycentric nature of the settlement pattern and how well connected the North is, both internally and externally. As can be seen from the European context diagram taken from the Regional Development Strategy for Northern Ireland, the North plays a key bridging role between Ireland and the continent of Europe. Significant environmental resources (areas of scenic, cultural and ecological significance) Diagram 3 shows how well endowed the North is in terms of high quality landscape and natural resources, close to its urban areas. 4

6 Discussion Note 8 PolyMETREXplus PolyMETREXplus Workshop 6 in Zaragoza Polycentric social (for example, joint education/health/cultural services or specialisations) and economic (for example, business/r and D/tourism) relationships that might be developed Polycentric spatial planning and development opportunities that might be developed, for example, for logistics, research, services, manufacturing, distribution etc. The whole thrust of the The Northern Way is to harness and develop the human resources of the area and to support this with the investment needed to realise the potential of the North. Key aspects of the Growth Strategy are. The global and European marketing of the North High quality transport systems with and between city regions are key considerations Urban renaissance (Map 4), with an emphasis on housing replacement and renewal The Growth Strategy contains specific targets for, Welfare to work Expenditure on R and D Business start-ups Support for existing manufacturing and services clusters and their employment levels Training programmes Tourism development (based on the development of northern airports) Development of port activities Reductions in traffic congestion It also seeks to promote, Innovation Technology transfer Science and industry and professional excellence Entrepreneurial attitudes and activity Key cluster development activities are envisaged in, Chemicals Food and drink Advanced engineering Energy and environmental technologies Financial and professional services and logistics 5

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10 Discussion Note 8 PolyMETREXplus PolyMETREXplus Workshop 6 in Zaragoza National Planning Framework for Scotland ( Introduction The Framework for Scotland has Quality and Connectivity as its sub title. It takes a view to The population of Scotland is just over 5m, with 60% living in the Central Belt and 27% in the four main cities of Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen. This is a decline from 39% in 1961 with Glasgow loosing a third of its population in this time. Scotland s population is falling and ageing but households are rising, maintaining demand for housing. Services dominate the economy and financial services have a global and European profile. Manufacturing is now reduced to 20% of GDP. Although Scotland has global and European trading links the UK remains the primary market for exports and the source of most imports. However, 60% of manufactured exports go to the EU. Business and industry cluster around transport nodes and routes. Services are concentrated in the urban centres and the knowledge economy is centered around the Universities, research Institutes and existing industry clusters. Tourism is a key sector of the economy but over 90% of visitors originate from the UK and Ireland. Scotland has major renewable energy resources and the Framework includes a target of 40% of energy from these sources by The three nuclear plants, which currently provide more than 50%, will close by Connectivity (primary road, rail and waterway networks, interchanges and gateways) The Rosyth/Zeebrugge fast ferry provides the only direct maritime link to the heart of Europe although there are cruise ferry links calling at Shetland. There is potential for better maritime and air links with the Baltic Sea area. There are good maritime connections to Northern Ireland. All the four main cities and the city of Inverness have airports but only Glasgow and Edinburgh have direct services to the USA and to Europe. Prestwick is a low cost airline hub and centre for heavy freight. Aberdeen airport serves the North Sea oil and gas installations. Sullom Voe and Flotta are major North Sea oil ports. Glasgow has the largest metropolitan rail network outside London and there are good rail connections within the Central Belt. The UK West Coast main line rail improvement will provide high-speed rail connections to England and, in due course, through to Europe. Polycentric urban settlement structure (primary metropolitan regions and areas, including clusters and corridors). The ESPON analyses are a starting point but PolyMETREXplus partner and contributors have suggested additions and modifications The emphasis of the Framework to 2025 is continued renewal and regeneration within Scotland s cities and improved connectivity between them. 6

11 Discussion Note 8 PolyMETREXplus PolyMETREXplus Workshop 6 in Zaragoza Significant environmental resources (areas of scenic, cultural and ecological significance) Scotland has an outstanding heritage of scenic areas and natural unspoiled resources. The Western coast and highlands are one of Europe s last great wilderness areas. Polycentric social (for example, joint education/health/cultural services or specialisations) and economic (for example, business/r and D/tourism) relationships that might be developed Polycentric spatial planning and development opportunities that might be developed, for example, for logistics, research, services, manufacturing, distribution etc. The key elements of the spatial strategy are to, Support the development of the cities as the main drivers of the economy Spread the benefits of economic activity by promoting environmental quality and connectivity Enable the most disadvantaged communities to benefit from growth and opportunity Strengthen external links Promote economic diversification and environmental stewardship Highlight long-term transport options and promote sustainable patterns of transport and land use Invest in water and drainage infrastructure to support development Realise the potential of Scotland s renewable energy resources Provide facilities to meet recycling targets Extend broadband coverage to every area of Scotland (presently 66%) The cities are the hubs of wider sub-regional economies (functional urban areas). They will be the focus for business clusters and corridors. They include, Clyde Corridor Lanarkshire Central Ayrshire Central Scotland West Edinburgh/Sooth Fife Lothian Dundee Aberdeen Inverness and the Moray Firth The Scottish Enterprise Network is focusing on seven clusters. Biotechnology Creative industries Microelectronics Optoelectronics Food and drink Forest industries Tourism It is surprising that renewable energy and energy efficiency are not included 7

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15 Discussion Note 8 PolyMETREXplus PolyMETREXplus Workshop 6 in Zaragoza Regional Development Strategy for Northern Ireland ( Introduction Shaping our Future is the theme of the Strategy. It looks to The vision is to create an outward looking, dynamic and liveable region and to sustain a high quality of life for all. The Strategy is based on, Urban hubs (compact cities and towns, high quality urban environments, improved transport systems and green spaces) Key transport corridors (inter-regional) and Metropolitan corridors (within the Belfast Metropolitan Area), Creating an upgraded and integrated regional transport system Enhancing the regional gateways The population of Northern Ireland is 1.685m and Belfast (660k), Londonderry (90k) and Craigavon (a new town of 60K) are the major urban centres. The population is expected to grow to 1.835m by Northern Ireland is a predominantly low wage economy biased towards the production of low added value goods. It is recognised that the economy has to be restructured. Peripherality is an issue that has to be overcome with technology and a services/knowledge based economy set in an area of high quality of life. GDP remains at 78% of the EU average but the economy is now changing and developing rapidly. Connectivity (primary road, rail and waterway networks, interchanges and gateways) A key consideration of the Strategy is to improve links to adjoining regions (within Ireland and to Scotland and England) and to Europe along the key transport corridors. Polycentric urban settlement structure (primary metropolitan regions and areas, including clusters and corridors). The ESPON analyses are a starting point but PolyMETREXplus partner and contributors have suggested additions and modifications In effect, Northern Ireland functions as an extended metropolitan region and its hinterland. Significant environmental resources (areas of scenic, cultural and ecological significance) Ireland has an acknowledged green image and reputation and many areas of great scenic and recreational value. 8

16 Discussion Note 8 PolyMETREXplus PolyMETREXplus Workshop 6 in Zaragoza Polycentric social (for example, joint education/health/cultural services or specialisations) and economic (for example, business/r and D/tourism) relationships that might be developed Polycentric spatial planning and development opportunities that might be developed, for example, for logistics, research, services, manufacturing, distribution etc. The key regional challenges that the Strategy will seek to meet include the following. Population growth of 105k by 2015 and 150k by k additional dwellings by 2015 and 250k by % of households comprising 1-2 persons Facilities and services to support this growing population 100k new jobs by 2015 Tackle social-economic differentials and long-term unemployment Improve accessibility to employment and services Promote a change in travel culture but also meet a possible 100% growth in car ownership by 2025 Modern, safe, sustainable, regional transport system Accommodate the growing volume of freight moving through gateways Strengthen the gateways to handle increasing flows Protect and care for the environmental heritage, including the built heritage, landscapes and biodiversity Reduce the consumption of environmental resources Improve the quality of air, water and land resources 9

17 C entres with Str ategic R ole for E mployment and Ser vices R egional Strategic Transport Network L ink Corridors M ajor Tourism Development Oppor tunity

18 Discussion Note 8 PolyMETREXplus PolyMETREXplus Workshop 6 in Zaragoza The Irish Spatial Strategy ( Introduction The Strategy seeks to enhance the performance of strategically placed engines of growth or gateways. This is intended to draw people, business activity, services, infrastructure and amenities together to drive economic growth forward and create the conditions for more balances patterns of development across Ireland. In effect, a polycentric approach. The Strategy identifies Dublin (1.535m), Cork (350k), Limerick/Shannon (236k), Galway (146k) and Waterford (119k) as existing gateways. New gateways include Dundalk and Sligo. Letterkenny/Derry and Atlone/Mullingar will act as linked gateways, that is two or more strong towns working in partnership to promote economic growth. The Strategy also identifies nine hubs or medium sized towns (in the range 20-40K) that will link to wider rural areas. Connectivity (primary road, rail and waterway networks, interchanges and gateways) The inter-regional transport network seeks to link all gateways and hubs and to provide access to global and European connections. The transport system is envisaged as an integrated network of strategic radial corridors, linking corridors and international access. Polycentric urban settlement structure (primary metropolitan regions and areas, including clusters and corridors). The ESPON analyses are a starting point but PolyMETREXplus partner and contributors have suggested additions and modifications The components of an Irish polycentric settlement system are, gateways linked gateways hubs related to broad national zones in which the primary themes are, Revitalizing Strengthening Reinforcing Consolidating co-operating Significant environmental resources (areas of scenic, cultural and ecological significance) As with Northern Ireland, the green image and reputation of Ireland is well known and established. 10

19 Discussion Note 8 PolyMETREXplus PolyMETREXplus Workshop 6 in Zaragoza Polycentric social (for example, joint education/health/cultural services or specialisations) and economic (for example, business/r and D/tourism) relationships that might be developed Polycentric spatial planning and development opportunities that might be developed, for example, for logistics, research, services, manufacturing, distribution etc. The continued prosperity and well being of Dublin is seen as central to the success of the country as a whole. There are a number of considerations that are regarded as critical. An efficient and high quality system of public transport International access through Dublin Airport and Dublin Port Good transport and telecommunications to other national gateways Water and waste management services Employment well related to public transport corridors Road transport intensive activities related to the strategic road network Continuing investment in education, innovation, research and development through higher level educational institutions and linkages with industry Maintaining the distinctive character of the city and its surrounding towns Protecting the environmental setting of the metropolitan area, particularly the surrounding mountains and river valleys Investing in quality of life attractions Eliminating areas of deprivation 11

20 Map 2 Gateways & Hubs National Spatial Strategy Map 2: Gateways & Hubs rry e e Letterkenny Ballina Sligo Sligo Castlebar Ballina Monaghan k Castlebar Cavan Tuam Athlone Mullingar Galway Galway Athlone Mullingar Tullamore Tullamore Dublin Ennis Ennis Limerick /Shannon Limerick /Shannon Kilkenny Kilkenny Wexford Wexford Tralee Tralee Killarney Killarney Mallow Mallow Cork 58 The National Spatial Strategy People, Places and Potential

21 Map 3 National Transport Framework Map 3: National Transport Framework s s Letterkenny Derry Air Sligo Enniskille n Sea Ballina Monaghan Newr y Castlebar Cavan Dundalk Galway Tuam Athlone Mullingar Dublin Air Sea Tullamore Air Ennis Limerick /Shannon Kilkenny Sea Tralee Killarney Mallow Waterford Wexford Sea Air Cork Air Sea The National Spatial Strategy People, Places and Potential 61

22 Discussion Note 8 PolyMETREXplus PolyMETREXplus Workshop 6 in Zaragoza The Wales Spatial Plan ( Introduction The Spatial Plan is at the consultative stage. It contains broad objectives and a National Spatial Perspective. This consists of four zones that have common attributes, common challenges and common opportunities. Zone 1 (pink on diagram) Population growth and strengthening housing and employment markets Low population density High quality natural environment Important regional and public service centres Zone 2 (yellow on diagram) Maritime locations with high quality environmental and cultural identities Diverse settlement structure of cities, towns and rural areas Static or declining population Significant pockets of multiple deprivation Close proximity to European routes Zone 3 (orange on diagram) Urbanised industrial areas with nearby high quality environment Concentrations of prosperity and poverty in close proximity National centres providing high order services Strong relationship between places (property and employments markets) Diverse economic base Development pressure on surrounding rural areas Vulnerable to climate change Congestion at peak times and limited infrastructure capacity Zone 4 (green on diagram) Predominantly agricultural areas in high quality natural environments Sparse population with weak growth Important natural resources (water, renewable energy, forestry, agriculture) and potential conflicts of interest (for example, with tourism) Cultural identity facing social change Connectivity (primary road, rail and waterway networks, interchanges and gateways) The Spatial Plan makes an integrated assessment of accessibility and includes consideration of links, gateways and intermodal hubs, public service facilities (higher health and education) and retailing. 12

23 Discussion Note 8 PolyMETREXplus PolyMETREXplus Workshop 6 in Zaragoza Polycentric urban settlement structure (primary metropolitan regions and areas, including clusters and corridors). The ESPON analyses are a starting point but PolyMETREXplus partner and contributors have suggested additions and modifications The zones identified above provide the basis for a linked and polycentric settlement structure of urban cluster and corridors. Significant environmental resources (areas of scenic, cultural and ecological significance) As with Ireland and Scotland, Wales contains many areas of high environmental quality close to urban areas. Polycentric social (for example, joint education/health/cultural services or specialisations) and economic (for example, business/r and D/tourism) relationships that might be developed Polycentric spatial planning and development opportunities that might be developed, for example, for logistics, research, services, manufacturing, distribution etc. At this consultative stage the Spatial Plan contains a checklist of objectives related to broad policies and action. Some key objectives are, Increasing economic activity rates and social inclusion Strengthening relationships between places Supporting workforce skills Enhancing research and development and innovation to drive economic development Promoting environmentally friendly and efficient transport Improving links to global transport hubs Strengthening ICT Reducing the Wales environmental footprint Ensuring development respects environmental capacity Increasing energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy Responding to the potential impacts of climate change Promoting tourism that respect the environmental and cultural heritage 13

24 THE WALES SPATIAL PLAN PEOPLE, PLACES, FUTURES Figure 8 National Spatial Perspective 35 Zones Yellow Orange Pink Green Zone link Service and Interchange Function Regional National Capital Links Regional National International

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26 Discussion Note 8 PolyMETREXplus PolyMETREXplus Workshop 6 in Zaragoza The Midlands Way ( Introduction As with the Northern Way, the Midlands Way has been produced by a Steering Group of the two Regional Development Agencies and others. The initiative was taken to respond to, The relentless need to modernise and diversify the industrial base Improve educational and skills attainment Build the capacity of urban areas to attract and retain people and firms The Midlands way focuses on the concept of SMART growth, or collaborating to compete, and to deliver over the next two decades to 2025, Sustained economic growth Increased productivity and employment based on technology and knowledge (skills, investment, innovation, enterprise and competition) Sustainable communities and urban renaissance on a polycentric basis The population is 9.5m. Key urban areas are Birmingham, the Three Cities of Nottingham, Derby and Leicester, Coventry, North Staffordshire and the Black Country. Connectivity (primary road, rail and waterway networks, interchanges and gateways) The competitive advantage of the Midlands is the connectivity of its internal markets and its connectivity to national and global markets. It intends to develop its gateways and linkages. Birmingham is now the second most visited Conference venue in Europe. The Universities of Birmingham, Warwick, Nottingham and Leicester attract 15,000 foreign students a year. Polycentric urban settlement structure (primary metropolitan regions and areas, including clusters and corridors). The ESPON analyses are a starting point but PolyMETREXplus partner and contributors have suggested additions and modifications The Midlands has a polycentric structure that it regards as strength. Significant environmental resources (areas of scenic, cultural and ecological significance) The Midlands primary assets are its varied urban character and diverse social and economic base. It has access to the Peak National park. 14

27 Discussion Note 8 PolyMETREXplus PolyMETREXplus Workshop 6 in Zaragoza Polycentric social (for example, joint education/health/cultural services or specialisations) and economic (for example, business/r and D/tourism) relationships that might be developed Polycentric spatial planning and development opportunities that might be developed, for example, for logistics, research, services, manufacturing, distribution etc. The Midlands Way summarises its priorities for SMART productivity, connections and renaissance as follows. Productivity Advanced manufacturing technologies Fuel cells/energy efficiency Health and medical technologies Environmental remediation technologies Collaboration between Science Councils Releasing skills blockages to technology exploitation Redeployment initiatives Use of public procurement and Midlands scale to access knowledge for regional priorities Connectivity Develop the growth potential of the main Midlands airports (Birmingham and Nottingham East Midlands) Improve links to major ports, particularly Felixstowe and the Humber Make more of the potential offered by the large number of overseas students studying in the region Conferences, exhibitions and events Renaissance Improve and diversify skills for regeneration Energy efficiency Zero waste Create better living environments in the suburbs, where most people live and seek a home Drive up housing standards Improve the public realm in the suburbs Make better use of attractions in the rural areas of the Midlands. Promote recreation provision in, and use of, the National Forest and Peak National Park Innovative financing of infrastructure projects Midlands priorities for infrastructure improvements 15

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29 Discussion Note 8 PolyMETREXplus PolyMETREXplus Workshop 6 in Zaragoza 3 Comparative findings and conclusions The following diagram shows how the Northern Isles can function as a network of related polycentric urban clusters with strong inter-regional and inter-national connectivity The striking feature of the six related Spatial Visions, Framework and Strategies is the common agenda that they all share for, 1. Improved metropolitan, inter-regional and international connectivity (particularly by air) 2. Restructured knowledge based service economies 3. Maximisation of the productivity of an often reducing labour force 4. An emphasis on the quality of life on offer The lack of consideration of the implications of climate change, which will be significant in the common time horizon of 2025 that they all share (see related Climate Change/Urban Change Briefing/Discussion Note) The concluding sections of each of the six case studies illustrate the range of collective social and economic initiatives that are under consideration. They may help suggest a basis for PolyMETREXplus RINA s. Potential RINA s in the Northern Isles could include, 1. Carbon Light % assessments (see related Climate Change/Urban Change Note) of spatial plans 2. Inter-regional/international high capacity high load factor carbon light transport systems (bus, tram and rail) to link polycentric urban clusters 3. Working with the aviation industry to explore carbon light futures 4. Renewable energy within urban areas (micro CHP etc.) 5. Working with the food and retail industries to explore carbon light futures 6. Working with key industrial sectors to explore carbon light futures 16

30 Tile 8 - NORTHERN ISLES G lasgow E dinburgh 8.19 Central Scotland Corridor Polycentric corridor study with external links to the island of Ireland and continental Europe Central Scotland Corridor 40k Partner Glasgow (GCVSPJC) 40k Contributors Edinburgh, Belfast, Benelux Londonderry 8.20 UK Core Cities Case Study Experience from a polycentric case study B elfast S tranraer Newcastle UK Core Cities Case Study Contributor UK Core Cities Group Dublin Holyhead Liverpool Manchester Leeds S heffield Hull MEGA's, transport nodes and potential polycentric groupings outside the Pentagon (see ESPON Study 1.1.1) Global Nodes European Engines Strong MEGA's Potential MEGA's Weak MEGA's B irmingham MEGA's at the margins of the ESPON classification Global transport nodes European transport nodes Potentials outside the Pentagon for FUA's to form polycentric regions F elixstowe A ms