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ARTICLE · 19 OCTOBER 2023

Levelling Up Or Opening Up?

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In its 2019 election campaign, the Government pledged to "level up" the United Kingdom, addressing historic disparities between London, and the South East, and the rest of the country.

United KingdomReal Estate and Construction
Matt Walker
Matt Walker
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In its 2019 election campaign, the Government pledged to "level up" the United Kingdom, addressing historic disparities between London, and the South East, and the rest of the country. This followed an ongoing trend towards greater devolution of powers throughout the UK, to give local leaders and communities the tools they need to make better places.

To that end, on 11 May 2022, the Government unveiled the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill (the "Levelling Up Bill"). The Levelling Up Bill will provide for a reduction of spatial disparities to be at the heart of government decision-making, while incorporating a range of planning reforms and allowing for powers over budgets, transport and skills to be devolved to all areas of England.

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