Northern Powerhouse boss says case for project more compelling than ever in light of Brexit

“This morning’s result makes the case for the UK Northern Powerhouse more compelling,” he said.

“Our stakeholders will continue to contribute to the process of building a stronger, more productive and stable Northern economy. The challenges of growth post Brexit will require innovation and new forms of collaboration which can create new opportunities for all.

“In the meantime work at Northern Powerhouse very much continues.”

The Northern Powerhouse was launched and has been driven by Chancellor George Osborne, whose political future is now uncertain given the impending departure of Prime Minister David Cameron. Mr Venning said that it would be incumbent on Government to continue to back the scheme politically but added that businesses should play their role too so as to enhance their involvement.

“The message is ‘get involved in this debate’ and take an interest in what is going on,” he said.

“If businesses expect to succeed it does have to take responsibilty for its involvement in the project. It is a collaborative project and needs people to be involved.”