Wolverhampton Economic Assessment and Strategy (2008-10)

ICF GHK was commissioned by Wolverhampton City Council to carry out an in-depth economic assessment of the strengths, weaknesses and opportunities facing businesses and communities in the City. We were able to ‘crunch the numbers’ through primary economic research and data analysis. This provided insights into the development of sectors and sub-sectors in the City and their significance. We also defined a detailed economic geography, moving beyond information on traditional travel to work areas and included data on patterns of economic specialisation and agglomeration and housing markets. Finally, and crucially, we worked closely with elected members and businesses to promote debate on development barriers and opportunities and then reach conclusions on investment priorities. The success of this assessment prompted Wolverhampton City Council to ask us to develop the evidence base into an Economic Development Strategy and Vision for Wolverhampton.  Further consultation and debate energised the business community and built consensus around a new vision for the City, leading to a ‘red carpet’ programme for new investment and the formation of delivery vehicles to turn the vision into reality.