In the Media: Property Week speaks to Michael Jones about revving the Midlands Engine

Thought by many to be the sibling of the Northern Powerhouse, the Midlands Engine still needs reviving. Property Week asked Michael to reflect on what has been achieved so far, and what still needs to be done.

Michael Jones said:

“The wheels are starting to turn, especially when we look at the enormous contribution that Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has made to Birmingham and Coventry, and the space it requires to bring its Jaguar marque to the fore. We also have the prospect of HS2 and the effect that this will have on the centre of Birmingham. Some of the figures for the investment and job creation are very, very impressive.

“George Osbourne said that [unless the Midlands engine was brought forward] the region would be missing an enormous opportunity for regeneration and investment. There was an initial reluctance but the local councils have realised that in order to benefit from external investment, it is essential to go ahead with a combined authority.

“Our friends in the snowy north had already named themselves the northern powerhouse and there was a feeling that they had stolen a march on us.”

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