The Sub-National Review

The Review of Sub-National Economic Development and Regeneration

The Review of the Sub-National Economic Development and Regeneration (SNR) was announced in the 2006 Budget and considered the measures which Government had put in place since 1997 to improve sub-national economic development and tackle pockets of deprivation. It also considered the evidence of progress to date as well as the impacts of globalisation and technological change. Analysis carried out through the review had identified areas where further reform may help ensure that regions and localities can respond to economic change and compete effectively in an increasingly globalised economy.

The review had been led by the Financial Secretary to the Treasury, and had been cross-cutting, involving close working between HM Treasury, Communities and Local Government and the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (formerly the Department of Trade and Industry), and extensive involvement by other Government Departments.

The Review of Sub-National Economic Development and Regeneration (SNR) was published on 17 July 2007. It recommended that Local Authorities be given new powers and incentives to drive local prosperity, economic growth and regeneration, tackle social deprivation and inequality and set out how Government can best build on steps already taken to devolve powers and resources to the most appropriate levels. It forms part of Government's drive to promote greater devolution in line with the Constitutional Green Paper, also published in July 2007, to ensure regions and local areas can play a greater strategic role in tackling the challenges they face.

Implementing the SNR

Communities and Local Government aim to create economically strong cities and regions which drive forward national prosperity and provide opportunity and social justice for all. We are creating vibrant, diverse and attractive places where people want to live, work and play.

The SNR reforms will enable regional, sub-regional and local partners to tailor solutions to their specific problems, making best use of available talent and opportunities. They will help to ensure that decisions are taken at the right level to be effective and that decision makers have the right tools at their disposal. The reforms will help places provide an economic environment that enables business to adapt to and create new technologies and opportunities. They will contribute to growth, jobs and wealth in a low carbon economy and reduce the disparities between the regions.

Communities and Local Government and the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) held a consultation exercise (published on 31 March 2008) on key proposals stemming from the SNR - for more information visit our page on Taking forward the Review of Sub-National Economic Development and Regeneration.