New skills plan sets out Tees Valley roadmap

A new employer-led plan has been launched to help align skills provision with the future needs of businesses across Tees Valley.

The Tees Valley Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) 2026-2029, developed by the North East Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Tees Valley Combined Authority, sets out the skills priorities needed to support the region’s economic growth.

The plan identifies six key sectors expected to drive future opportunities: advanced manufacturing; bio and life sciences; chemical and process industries; clean energy; construction; and digital and creative industries.

Based on feedback from employers across Tees Valley, the report highlights the need to better connect education and training with business requirements, while improving work readiness, digital and AI skills, higher-level technical capabilities and access to apprenticeships and placements.

Rachel Anderson, assistant director of policy at the North East Chamber of Commerce, said: “This Local Skills Improvement Plan is shaped by the voice of Tees Valley employers. 

“Businesses have been clear about both the opportunities ahead and the challenges they face in recruiting the skilled workforce they need to grow and thrive.

“With major investment transforming the Tees Valley economy, we have a real opportunity to create high-quality jobs and ensure local people can access the careers emerging across key growth sectors. 

“Achieving that depends on a skills system that is employer-led, responsive and aligned with the needs of the regional economy – measures we outline in our Unlocking the North East Economy policy plan.

“The LSIP sets out a practical framework for collaboration between employers, education providers, universities, local authorities and partners. 

“Continued partnership and employer leadership will be essential to deliver the actions identified, strengthen our talent pipeline and ensure Tees Valley has the workforce needed to drive long-term, sustainable economic growth.” 

The publication comes as significant investment continues across areas including clean energy, advanced manufacturing and industrial decarbonisation, with forecasts suggesting around 33,000 additional jobs could be created in the region by 2035.

Developed through engagement with employers, education providers, universities, local authorities and sector organisations, the LSIP provides a framework to support workforce development and ensure local people can access emerging career opportunities.

It also supports wider regional ambitions to improve productivity, encourage innovation and drive inclusive economic growth.

Tees Valley mayor added: “Our region is leading the way in delivering the industries that will power the UK’s future – from clean energy and advanced manufacturing to digital innovation and life sciences. 

“But our success depends on making sure local people have the skills needed to access the high-quality jobs being created right here on their doorstep.

“This plan ensures our education and training system keeps pace with the opportunities emerging across our region. 

“By bringing businesses, educators and training providers together, we’re building a workforce that meets the needs of industry today while preparing for the opportunities of tomorrow.

“As we continue to attract major investment and create thousands of new jobs, this plan will help ensure Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool residents are first in line to benefit, giving employers the talent they need to grow and ensuring our region remains at the forefront of economic growth and innovation.”

To download a copy of the plan, click here.

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