What has the West Midlands Combined Authority ever done for us?
“All combined authorities are an experiment. They’re designed to give local leaders the powers to raise productivity by looking at issues which transcend traditional local authority boundaries. It’s the big picture, joined up, strategic thinking.” In this article, we share the thoughts of Cllr Ryan Simpson (Shadow Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate […]
Could ‘hiring for fit’ narrow the skills gap?
In this article, Ian Harrison (Director, Growhouse Growth Business Ltd and Member of CNM’s ‘People and Skills’ Leadership Board) considers whether the region’s skills gap is made worse by an overemphasis on skills in recruitment processes. (February 2024) Go to any workshop, attend any webinar on recruitment and it won’t be long before […]
New Director of Housing Research appointed at the Centre for the New Midlands
We are delighted to announce a new appointment for the Centre for the New Midlands. Dr Halima Sacranie takes up the position of Director of Housing Research at the Centre, starting her new role in February 2024. This marks the start of an exciting next phase in the growth of this thinktank from creating a […]
Using Virtual Reality experiences to enhance the quality of life for residents of West Midlands’ care homes
In this article, we share the findings of a research project undertaken by Professor Mohammad Patwary (University of Wolverhampton) and his colleagues, which explores how to enhance the quality of life for elderly residents in care homes in the United Kingdom through the incorporation of Virtual Reality (VR) experiences. The research involved implementing VR experiences […]
Bridging the Generations: Unveiling the Transformative Power of Intergenerational Communities in the Midlands
“As we step into 2024, imagine a vibrant community where mixed-use developments seamlessly blend residential, commercial, and healthcare facilities. Picture neighbourhoods adorned with accessible public spaces, parks, and recreational areas, nurturing the physical and mental well-being of older adults.” In this article, Raynee De Zoysa (Senior Business Development Manager, Balfour Beatty & Member of […]
The Section 106 Standing Stock Scandal
“We are in the middle of an exponential housing crisis and people need homes right now. Having empty, brand-new, purpose-built homes they could be housed in is absolutely unforgiveable and unacceptable.” In this article, Liz Williams (Member of CNM’s Housing and Communities Leadership Board) puts the spotlight on a problem which “is not being openly […]
Leadership Boards confirmed for 2024
Following an extensive, open recruitment process, we are delighted to announce the appointments to our Leadership Boards and the people who will help shape our work over the next two years. A very warm welcome to Liz Williams CIHM (Rentplus-UK ), Joanna Lee-Mills (Shakespeare Martineau) and Christopher Plumley (Trowers & Hamlins) who have joined our […]
New People and Skills Board launched to address the West Midlands’ skills gap
More than 60 business leaders and industry professionals from across the Midlands have joined together to help shape policy, combine research and bring fresh ideas to address the region’s skills gap. On Thursday 19th October, Centre for the New Midlands (CNM) – a not-for-profit think tank – officially launched the ‘People and Skills Workstream’ which […]
Location, location, location: 15-minute neighbourhoods and why they are good for everyone
One of the surprises of the party conference season has been the focus on the concept of ’15 minute neighbourhoods’ – and not for the reasons that you might expect. In this article, Tim Fawcett (Birmingham Cities Lead, Mott MacDonald and Chair of CNM Infrastructure Board) explores the origins of the concept and what […]
Birmingham: this is too big a challenge to be solved behind closed doors. We all need to be at the table
At the start of October 2023, Birmingham City Council welcomed eight commissioners to the city who are to run the local authority for the next five years, after it effectively went bankrupt. In this article, Lucy Reid (Chief operating officer, DemocracyNext; Chair, Moseley Road Baths CIO) argues that the scale of the problem is […]