Right now, in the UK it feels as though change is the only constant. In fact, at the time of writing weare still waiting to see what plans Rishi Sunak’s new Government will have for the regions.

While significant UK-wide economic challenges are putting pressure on everyone, the strength of the region as a hub of innovation and future potential needs to shine through.

Whether we call it levelling up, the Northern Powerhouse, or a focus on growth, our ambitions across the North should remain the same. We need to maintain our competitive edge among our counterparts – major regional economies across Europe – and give people and businesses even better opportunities to flourish here.

Great Northern Conference can lay foundations for better future for region: Carl Ennis