East Midlands tops UK growth league

The East Midlands had the fastest-growing economy in England in the first six months of the year, a report has revealed.
George CowcherGeorge Cowcher
George Cowcher

RBS’ second Regional Growth Tracker recorded growth in all nine English regions for the sixth consecutive quarter, with the East Midlands leading the way as one of only four where economic output had passed its pre-credit crunch peak.

Chief executive of Derbyshire’s chamber of commerce, George Cowcher, said: “This latest report, which echoes the findings of the chamber’s own research, shows that, unlike other English regions, the East Midlands is benefitting from a well-balanced economy, with real strengths in manufacturing and engineering; the service sector; and science and technology.

“It also shows that progress is being made with the skills agenda – although issues still remain – with more private sector jobs being created here than anywhere else in the UK.”