In the latest instalment of Insider’s Q&A series on the Northern Powerhouse, our CEO Carl Critchlow, discusses what the initiative means to him, why transport links between Northern cities should be prioritised, and how closer collaboration between the public and private sectors can help the North challenge London.

A taster from the interview saw Carl answer “What is the single main issue you would like to see dominate the Northern Powerhouse agenda?”

Carl answered: Transport links between Northern cities are woefully inadequate and should be given absolute priority, especially after the scrapping of HS2. Northern Powerhouse Rail was much bandied about; it would establish faster, more reliable rail routes from Liverpool to Manchester and Leeds – supporting smaller towns and cities like Chester in the process. It’s great to see the metro mayors and other political leaders on a more local level calling on Westminster to make good on its long-awaited plans to fix transport in the North, but now it’s time for action.

Along with “Is there enough collaboration between towns and cities across the North?”

In short, no. I would like to see closer collaboration between the public and private sectors across the North to challenge London collectively. Chester is strategically located, with strong links to Liverpool and Manchester. At Chester BID, we see the exceptional value in fostering these cross-sector partnerships to unlock our economic potential and spur on growth in our city. We’re open for business and leisure – and will always welcome greater collaboration with our neighbours.

Read more on Carls interview here

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