Published in June 2016, the Report emphasises the role of small and medium sized cities (SMCs) within the North, that is often overlooked in favour of the core regional cities. SMCs are defined as urban areas with a population ranging from 75,000 - 300,000. The concept of ‘agglomeration’ is discussed in detail. This refers to the spatial concentration of economic activity in cities that has been used as justification for channelling investment into the core northern cities, with the expectation that it will produce the greatest economic returns.

The Report conducts a critical review of the evidence that has led to this belief and suggests that in fact SMCs, which represent almost a third of North of England’s economy, have the most untapped potential. Using case study evidence and a plethora of previous research, the Report discusses the strengths and weaknesses of SMCs and goes on to make recommendations for both SMCs, and national and sub-national bodies to define a more comprehensive economic strategy for the urban areas outside of the core regions.