The paper examines the case for a stronger city-region approach to policymaking. It discusses each of the main component elements of modern regional economic policy in turn:

It appraises the key arguments for a stronger city-region focus for each of the elements. The authors argue for a more flexible set of governance structures for the implementation of regional policy, giving city-regions an enhanced role but not a monopoly position. The example of tourism policy is used to illustrate the main arguments.

The focus on the city-region, a central urban core together with its commuter hinterland, has grown over recent years, and in particular its relevance as an administrative and strategic entity. Calls for regional and sub-regional reform have been voiced partly as a response to economic globalisation and the erosion of the power and scope of nation-states, and partly to the growth in powers assumed by supra-national bodies such as the European Union. This is one in a set of working papers on a framework for city-regions providing an evidence base if a national policy for city-regions is to be developed.

The working paper makes the case for a stronger city-region approach to policy-making and backs up its arguments with evidence, analysis and an example of tourism policy.

It is recommended that the city-region be given a more prominent role than in the past and that city-level organisations be given stronger roles alongside partners from other tiers. A multi-level governance framework is suggested with allows for various different tiers all playing their own distinctive role. It is also recommended that more flexible governance structures be developed for regional economic policies which can facilitate a greater city-region role.

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01/02/2006

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Simon Marvin et al.

research

Urban Policy > Economy knowledge & employment

Urban economy