Dear members, friends, and supporters of the Eastern Powerhouse,
As 2024 is drawing to a close, it is a moment to reflect on a year that has brought notable changes for the country and our region.
In July, Labour secured a landslide General Election victory that has transformed the political landscape, not least in the East of England where the party now holds the majority of seats for the first time since 1945. This year can be defined by seismic political changes and bold plans to address the many challenges facing the country.
These challenges cannot be underestimated; however, we now have new opportunities and fresh approaches to address them. For the Eastern Powerhouse, our mission to champion the region and secure a prosperous future has never felt more vital.
A New Government, New Opportunities
The results of this year’s General Election have ushered in a new era of leadership, one defined by ambition but significant structural challenges. Labour’s mission-driven approach offers opportunities for the East, but we need more responsibility to actually deliver transformative change. We’ve engaged proactively with the Government on issues ranging from infrastructure reform to planning policy, ensuring that our voice is not only heard but acted upon. However we must do more together, we must strive for a more unified and consistent voice.
The new Government’s first budget laid the groundwork for transformative initiatives, but as we’ve argued in our response, the East of England requires more attention and tailored solutions to unlock its potential. From pushing for investment in our infrastructure to advocating for greater devolution, we are committed to ensuring that national strategies deliver for our region.
Infrastructure, Planning, and Competitiveness - A Region of ‘latent’ Potential?
All our efforts have been guided by a clear vision: to make the East an even better place to live and do business. Rather than simply voicing complaints, we are committed to good ideas, actively supporting the Government in its mission. However, it is clear that the East still faces significant barriers. Infrastructure is a critical area where outdated systems threaten to frankly impede our growth.
This year, by engaging with the construction sector in the East, we published a detailed submission on planning reforms and infrastructure needs.
Our submission underscored that without urgent and strategic investment, the region’s ability to compete globally will be hampered. Almost every county is in desperate needed of at least one major infrastructure upgrade, but was unfortunately passed over in the budget. Is there a way that we can revisit public/ private partnerships to get these schemes built?
Our manifesto for the East made clear the stakes: the region is home to cutting-edge industries, world-class universities, and thriving communities. Yet, bottlenecks in transport, lack of housing, and connectivity threaten to erode these advantages. We’ve highlighted the urgent need for a forward-thinking approach, one that embraces innovation, supports local businesses, and equips the region to attract and retain talent.
I believe our EPH manifesto is a strong roadmap for inspired action, filled with positive policy solutions. I have been very optimistic about the new Industrial Strategy ‘Invest 2035’, as many of the key sectors championed are right here in the East. Let’s support these sectors and drive the UK's competitiveness forward.
Driving Regional Growth Through Collaboration
Prior to the election, the EPH held its annual conference where Chloe Smith MPÂ (former SoS for Science, Innovation and Technology) and Dr Alan Whitehead MPÂ (former Shadow Energy Minister) discussed the opportunities for development in the East; a testament to cross-party collaboration and thinking.
Our events at Labour Party Conference included keynotes from Ben Goldsborough MP (South Norfolk), Dr Peter Prinsley MP (Bury St Edmunds and Stowmarket), Cllr Jeremy Newmark (Leader, Hertsmere Borough Council), all of whom emphasised the importance of regional collaboration and the role of local leadership in driving national success. Their optimism and commitment reinforced the Eastern Powerhouse’s role as a catalyst for meaningful change.
Devolution remains a cornerstone of our agenda. We believe passionately that ambitious devolution deals will empower the East to reach new heights. The devolution white paper which is due next week will provide clarity and direction for the future of local government in England. The EPH will continue working tirelessly to promote the benefits of devolution for businesses and communities in the East so that the region can address its devolution deficit. You can read more about this here.
A year of Engagement and Thought Leadership
Through numerous events and individual meetings, we increased our engagement with the business, political, and wider stakeholder community in the East and in Westminster, informing our work.
Looking Ahead
As we turn to 2025, national rejuvenation and growth are the clear goals. The East of England is poised to be a leader in the UK’s economic recovery, but this requires bold action. Our priorities are steadfast from day 1 of launching the Powerhouse:
I have always pushed for collaboration, striving to amplify the outstanding work and great ideas of regional stakeholders across the board, rather than fostering competition. Now, more than ever, we must strengthen our efforts to work together, across parties, counties, and sectors. Without this unifying approach, we risk stagnation and the same issues persisting and the same conversations taking place, in the same rooms. By building on the momentum we’ve created, we can set a truly optimistic and ambitious trajectory for the years ahead.
This year has demonstrated the critical importance of having a regional platform that advocates for what’s right for the East. The challenges are real, but so are the opportunities. Together, we can shape a future that reflects the strength, resilience, and ambition of our region.
Thank you for your continued support, collaboration, and dedication. Here’s to building an even brighter future for the East of England in 2025 and beyond.
With best wishes for the holiday season and the year ahead,
Steven Lynch MBE,
Executive Director