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The North of England is a vital component
of the United Kingdom’s economy. Growth
of new industries in the North will provide
stability and resilience to the regional and
national economic future, in a time of change
but also of innovation-driven global economic
opportunity. The North is home to eight of the
UK’s top 30 universities. The N8 Research
Partnership collaboration brings together the
world-class research, innovation and skills of
these research-intensive Northern universities.
As detailed in this important new report, the N8 universities
are places of extensive student learning and world-class
research, yes - but more, they are institutions that anchor the
regional economy, through diverse employment and income,
and through knowledge exchange and widespread business
partnerships and consultancy.
This report quantifies, for the first time, the significant positive
impacts that the N8 universities make across the Northern
economy. These include benefit to the economy of over £12
billion; driving employment of more people than there are jobs
in Salford; training 190,000 students including 17,000 students
engaged in research degrees; and holding 32% of all business
and public sector consultancy contracts in the UK Higher
Education sector.
Moving forwards from this impressive base, the research-
intensive universities can play a central role in strengthening
and stabilising industries, through new ideas, innovations
and insights. As the devolution of important powers to cities
and regions moves forward, partnerships between cities
and universities can provide a clear voice of leadership and
ideas, and can create a high-skill, innovation-driven future. I
believe and expect the N8 universities, working individually
and together, to be at the forefront of a rejuvenated Northern
economy. I look forward to seeing further successful cross-
sectoral partnerships with city leaders, and the Northern and
national business community.
Foreword
The Rt Hon the Lord Heseltine CH
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