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Newcastle ?could be Turin of the North East?

Newcastle is ready to become a leading European city rivalling Milan, Rotterdam and Turin, said Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Ruth Kelly.In a major speech to the Core Cities Summit in Bristol, Ms Kelly singled out Newcastle as an example of an English city which has had major economic and social revival. Newcastle has experienced an urban renaissance since 1997, with strong economic growth, higher employment rates, and a better local environment. However, Ms Kelly conceded there was still more to do to close the gap with its European competitors, and continue its transformation.Ruth Kelly said: “Our cities have turned the corner in recent years. Newcastle for example is rapidly becoming one of the most dynamic cities in Europe. However, we know there is still much more to do. We must be ambitious and visionary. Newcastle has the opportunity not only to become an engine of growth for its region - a Turin of the North East, but also to compete on the international stage. “Over the next 20 years, with its diverse economic base, it should be looking to rival places such as Milan, Rotterdam and Turin in the international arena. This is a new exciting time for our cities and regions. We in Government need to look at devolving more strategic powers to cities and they need to have governance arrangements that provide a clear mandate to take the tough decisions. Being bold and strongly led we can take our cities to the next level and compete with the very best.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .